#1 in Olive's Ocean Series
Words of Stone
1992 by
on Goodreads (480)
What’s inside...
The book tells the story of shy, reclusive Blaze who befriends a mysterious girl, Joselle Stark. They bond over mysterious messages being written in stones on a hillside, not realizing they are from each other. The novel is a delicate exploration of friendship, secrets, and the transformative power of communication.
Why read this book
- Promotes friendship, empathy, and self-discovery themes.
- Engaging, emotionally resonant narrative for young readers.
- Encourages understanding of complex emotions and relationships.
- Supports development of communication and emotional skills.
The Big Picture
- Explores impact of words on friendships
- Encourages empathy and emotional growth
- Supports discussions on conflict resolution
- Highlights importance of making amends
Diversity & Representation
- Highlights rural American life, enhancing geographical and cultural awareness.
- Main characters display diverse emotional experiences and resilience.
- Promotes empathy through realistic interpersonal challenges and resolutions.
Book in series
#1
Age
8-12
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
Why do you think Blaze created messages with stones, and what message would you create if you had a chance?
How do the characters in the book handle feeling lonely or misunderstood? Can you relate to any of their experiences?
What changes do you notice in the friendship between Blaze and Joselle as the story progresses?
How do you think both main characters grow by the end of the book, and what lessons did they learn about friendship and understanding?
If you could give advice to Blaze at the beginning of the book, what would you say?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on the emotions of the characters and relate them to their own experiences. This builds empathy and self-awareness.
After reading the book, ask your child to draw or write a message using stones or other natural elements, mimicking Blaze’s unique way of expression.
Discuss the misunderstandings between characters in the story and relate them to real-life scenarios, teaching problem-solving and perspective-taking.
Highlight the importance of giving people a second chance and ask your child if they have experiences where they learned something new about someone after knowing them better.
Use the resolution of the book to discuss the importance of communication and openness in friendships.
What parents love
Handles tough themes with sensitivity and care.
Storyline is intriguing, keeps the pages turning!
Effective mix of fun narratives and learning moments.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: In 'Words of Stone,' the protagonist learns the value of true friendship as he navigates complex relationships and misunderstandings.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by understanding the significance of trust and communication in fostering and maintaining friendships in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Dealing with emotions
Explanation: The story explores how the characters deal with feelings of loneliness, anger, and forgiveness, which are essential for personal growth.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children identify and express their emotions healthily and constructively, essential for emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Impact of words
Explanation: The title itself, 'Words of Stone,' and the narrative emphasize how deeply words can affect us, both positively and negatively.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be mindful of their words, understanding their lasting impact on others, and choosing kindness and support over hurtful expressions.
Example Lesson: Overcoming fears
Explanation: Characters in the book face and overcome various fears, showing resilience and courage.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their own fears and challenges, understanding that overcoming them is a part of growing up and developing confidence.
Example Lesson: Resolving conflicts
Explanation: Throughout 'Words of Stone,' conflicts arise and the characters must navigate these challenges, teaching problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to apply conflict resolution strategies in their interactions, promoting peace and understanding in their everyday social scenarios.