Victory Lap
on Goodreads (24)
What’s inside...
Victory Lap is an own voices young adult novel that follows the lives of two high school seniors, Josh and Kiki, navigating their last year amidst personal and romantic challenges. Josh is unsure of his future and is taking a fifth year of high school, while dealing with a recent breakup. Kiki, who has quietly started transitioning, is facing the challenge of presenting as her true self at school and finds herself developing feelings for Josh. Their final year is filled with uncertainty as they both strive to figure out their identities and futures.
Age
0-1
Length
248 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the main character's journey in 'Victory Lap'? How did it make you feel?
Can you think of a time when you had to overcome a challenge like the character did? What did you learn from that experience?
Why do you think teamwork was important in the story? How did it help the characters succeed?
What do you think was the most important lesson the main character learned? How could that lesson help you in your own life?
If you could change one part of the story, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s themes and ask your child if they agree or saw things differently. This encourages them to express their opinions and understand different perspectives.
Use follow-up questions to delve deeper into your child’s responses, which can lead to more meaningful discussions about the book's themes.
Relate characters' experiences or lessons from the book to real-life situations your child might face, making the discussion more relevant and engaging.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to help them think creatively and discuss the implications of different choices made by the characters.
Be sure to listen actively to your child’s thoughts and opinions without interrupting, to make them feel heard and valued in the conversation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: In 'Victory Lap', characters achieve goals through collaboration, demonstrating that working together can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by participating in group activities in school or community, learning to cooperate and value each other’s contributions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in Overcoming Obstacles
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters face challenges but their determination leads them to overcome these hurdles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of not giving up despite difficulties, whether it's in their academic studies, sports, or personal tasks.
Example Lesson: Value of Honesty
Explanation: Characters in the book learn that honesty builds trust and leads to better relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be honest in their daily interactions, understanding that truthfulness strengthens friendships and trust with peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: The book showcases characters from diverse backgrounds learning from each other's perspectives.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be open and accepting towards peers from different cultures, enhancing interpersonal relationships and cultural awareness.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: Characters face consequences for their choices, illustrating the impact of decisions.
Real-World Application: Children understand that their actions have outcomes, helping them to make more thoughtful, responsible choices in real-life situations.