Ways to Grow Love: Ryan Hart
#1 of 4 in Ryan Hart Series
What’s inside...
Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Author Award winner Renée Watson continues her charming young middle grade series starring Ryan Hart, a girl who is pure spirit and sunshine.
Ryan Hart and her family are back in another installment of stories about a Black girl finding her way and her voice as she grows through change and challenges. In this book, Ryan finds herself waiting on lots of things -- like for her new sister to be born healthy, for her new recipes to turn out right, for that summer camp trip to go better than she fears! And of course Ryan is facing these new challenges and new experiences in her classic style -- with a bright outlook and plenty of spirit!
Why read this book
- Explores themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery.
- Encourages empathy, resilience, and personal growth.
- Captivating narrative that keeps young readers engaged.
- Supports emotional and social development.
The Big Picture
- Explore resilience through Ryan’s personal challenges.
- Learn kindness from interactions within family and community.
- Discuss handling change and adapting to new environments.
What parents love
- Perfect blend of fun story and meaningful lessons.
- Engaging and relatable for young children.
- Handles sensitive topics thoughtfully.
- Promotes resilience and empathy through story.
Diversity & Representation
- Explores themes of family, friendship, and Black identity.
- Highlights cultural traditions and community involvement.
- Portrays diverse family structures and relationships.
Discussion points
How do you think Ryan felt when she faced challenges, and how would you feel in her situation?
What does this story teach us about kindness and empathy towards others?
Ryan tries many new things in the book. What new activity would you like to try, and why?
How do you think Ryan's family and friends helped her grow in the story?
If you could give Ryan one piece of advice, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book by relating the story to their own experiences. Ask them to consider what they would do in Ryan's place and explore the outcomes of different choices. Utilize the discussion to instill values of resilience and empathy, reinforcing that it's okay to make mistakes as long as we learn from them. Celebrate the thematic elements of family, friendship, and personal growth found in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: Ryan Hart frequently demonstrates empathy by considering the feelings of others, such as her sibling and friends, throughout the story.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize emotions in others and responding with kindness and understanding in their own interactions.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Ryan faces several challenges in the book, but she learns to persist and not give up easily, which ultimately leads to personal growth and success.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to keep trying in the face of difficulties, whether it's completing a tough homework assignment or mastering a new skill.
Example Lesson: Understanding change and adaptability
Explanation: Throughout the novel, Ryan learns to adapt to changes in her family dynamics and friendships, showing resilience and flexibility.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace changes in their lives, such as moving to a new school or adjusting to a new family member, by modeling Ryan's adaptability.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and relationships
Explanation: Ryan's interactions with her family are central to the narrative, highlighting how relationships can provide support and strength.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to value and nurture relationships with family members, recognizing the support and love they offer.
- Award winning
Ways to Grow Love
Renée Watson, Niña Mata, 2021
192 pages
Why to read
Celebrates friendship, family, and self-discovery.
Encourages emotional growth and resilience in young readers.
Integrates everyday challenges with enriching life lessons.
Vibrant storytelling that captivates and educates.
Ways to Grow Love
Renée Watson, Niña Mata, 2021
- Award winning
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, Listening Library, 2021
48 pages
Why to read
Enhances understanding of African American history.
Strengthens empathy through powerful storytelling.
Encourages critical thinking and discussion.
Beautiful, evocative illustrations complement the narrative.
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, Listening Library, 2021
- Award winning
X: A Novel
Ilyasah Shabazz, Renée Watson, 2018
256 pages
Why to read
Captivating historical narrative enhances cultural awareness.
Inspires resilience and courage through personal growth.
Stimulates discussions on racial and social justice.
Encourages empathy and understanding in young readers.
X: A Novel
Ilyasah Shabazz, Renée Watson, 2018
- Award winning
Maya's Song
Renée Watson, Vicki B. Williamson, Bryan Collier, 2022
48 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and resilience.
Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy in children.
Vibrant illustrations complement the engaging narrative.
Supports language development and vocabulary expansion.
Maya's Song
Renée Watson, Vicki B. Williamson, Bryan Collier, 2022
Black Girl You Are Atlas
Renée Watson, Ekua Holmes, 2024
96 pages
Why to read
Celebrates empowerment and resilience in young black girls.
Inspires confidence through relatable, strong female characters.
Encourages self-discovery and personal growth.
Beautifully written, fostering a love for reading.
Black Girl You Are Atlas
Renée Watson, Ekua Holmes, 2024
