Write Before Your Eyes
#1 of 33 in Once/Now/Then/After Series
on Goodreads (110)
What’s inside...
TWELVE-YEAR-OLD GRACIE is always flying under the radar of her overworked parents and outspoken siblings. But when she buys an old journal at a yard sale, Gracie is stunned to realize that everything she writes in the journal comes true—though sometimes in unexpected ways. At first, Gracie uses the journal selfishly, controlling her mother’s BlackBerry and eliminating the dress code at school. But then she starts to think about bigger issues like world hunger, global warming, and world peace. Unfortunately, before she can make headway on any of those issues, the journal falls into the wrong hands—and soon Gracie and her best friend/crush Dylan are rushing around town trying to undo the damage! This fun, warm, emotionally honest novel is both a fantastic adventure and a testament to the power of writing to change the world.
Character compass
Lucy
Discussion points
How do you think Grace's life changed after finding the magic journal? What would you write in a journal if it could make your wishes come true?
Why do you think Grace wished for the things she did? If you had similar powers, what would be your first wish and why?
How did Grace's relationship with her family and friends evolve throughout the story? Who would you turn to if you were facing similar challenges?
What lessons did Grace learn about the consequences of her wishes? Have you ever had a wish that didn't turn out the way you expected?
How do you think Grace felt when she made decisions that affected others? Can you share a time when your decision impacted someone else?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your thoughts on the book’s theme, then ask open-ended questions to encourage your child to express their understanding and feelings.
Create an open and comfortable discussion environment, affirming all of the child’s responses, to make them more engaged in sharing their thoughts.
Link the discussion to the real world by comparing the situations in the book with real-life scenarios, making it easier for the child to relate to the story.
Encourage your child to think about the moral lessons and real-life applications of Grace’s experiences in the story.
Listen actively to your child’s responses and show interest in their views, which helps foster a deeper connection with the storyline and characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In 'Write Before Your Eyes', the protagonist learns the value of being truthful to herself and others. As she grapples with her magical diary that turns her written words into reality, she realizes that honesty impacts her relationships and personal growth.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding that being honest helps build trust and strong relationships with family and friends. It teaches them to be true to themselves and others in daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Understanding the consequences of one's actions
Explanation: The book explores the repercussions of the main character's actions when her desires, written in the diary, actually come true. She learns that her actions, even those intended as harmless wishes, can have significant effects on others.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children see that their decisions and actions influence not just themselves but also those around them. It encourages responsibility and thoughtful decision-making.
Example Lesson: Coping with change and loss
Explanation: The narrative addresses the protagonist's struggle with her mother's illness and her adjustments to changes in her family dynamics. Through her journey, she learns resilience and the importance of support during challenging times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace change and seek support from loved ones during difficult times. This lesson aids in developing emotional intelligence and coping strategies for life's inevitable challenges.
Example Lesson: The power of self-expression
Explanation: As the protagonist uses writing as a form of expression, she discovers her own voice and gains confidence. The book highlights how articulating feelings through words can be a powerful tool for personal growth.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to express themselves creatively through writing, art, or conversation. It emphasizes the importance of communication for emotional well-being and self-discovery.