Wishbones
illustrations by
on Goodreads (260)
What’s inside...
Feather Tucker has two wishes: to get her mum healthy again and to win the Junior UK swimming championships. When she finds her mum, one of Britain's most obese women, in a diabetic coma on New Year's Eve, Feather realizes she needs to take action to save her mum's life. Despite her mum's resistance, Feather's mission becomes an investigation into her mum's past with the help of friends and a runaway pet goat named Houdini. As she uncovers the reasons behind her mum's unhealthy habits, Feather must race against time to help her mum and save her family before her big swimming competition.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
13-17
Length
384 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Feather was feeling when she discovered her mother's secret? How would you feel in her situation?
Feather takes care of her mother and also tries to solve a family mystery. What does this show about her character? Can you think of a time when you helped someone?
The theme of family secrets is central in 'Wishbones'. Why do you think families keep secrets from each other?
How do the different settings in the book, like the hospital or Feather's home, affect the story's mood? Which setting did you find most interesting?
What does the title 'Wishbones' symbolize in the story? What do you think it means to make a wish?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their emotions about the book’s events and characters. This helps them connect more deeply with the story and develop empathy.
Discuss the motives behind characters’ actions to enhance your child’s analytical skills.
Relate the book’s themes to your child’s experiences. For example, talk about a time when your family shared a secret and how it was resolved.
Ask your child to imagine they are a character in the book and have them explain why they would make different decisions.
Use creative prompts such as drawing a scene from the book or writing a letter to a character. These activities make the discussion more interactive and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'Wishbones', the protagonist, Feather, shows deep empathy towards her mother who struggles with obesity and health issues. Feather's journey highlights the importance of understanding and supporting loved ones through challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize the struggles of others around them and offer support and understanding, fostering stronger familial and peer relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage to face difficult truths
Explanation: Feather uncovers family secrets and faces the truth about her mother’s condition and the impact on her family. This aspect of the story demonstrates the necessity of facing uncomfortable truths for personal and family healing.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of honesty and bravery in confronting difficult situations, which is essential for personal growth and resolving conflicts.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and personal growth
Explanation: As Feather takes on more responsibility at home due to her mother's health, she learns important life skills and grows personally. The narrative encourages taking responsibility in challenging situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take initiative and handle responsibilities in their own lives, which promotes maturity and self-reliance.
Example Lesson: The importance of pursuing dreams
Explanation: Feather has aspirations of becoming a champion swimmer, and despite the hurdles, she pursues her dreams. This shows the importance of setting goals and working towards them regardless of obstacles.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to identify their passions and work diligently towards achieving their goals, teaching them perseverance and goal-setting.
Example Lesson: The power of community support
Explanation: The local community plays a crucial role in supporting Feather and her family through their difficulties. This element of the story showcases how communal support can provide strength during tough times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of community involvement and how reaching out for support or offering help can make a significant difference in overcoming life's challenges.