Synopsis
Chrysanthemum is a funny and honest school story about teasing, self-esteem, and acceptance to share all year round. Chrysanthemum thinks her name is absolutely perfect—until her first day of school. "You're named after a flower!" teases Victoria. "Let's smell her," says Jo. Chrysanthemum wilts. What will it take to make her blossom again?- ★★★★☆
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- Was Chrysanthemum proud of her name before her classmates teased her?
- Why did Chrysanthemum wilt? She felt trampled on by her classmates–mention the authors poetic use of the word “wilt” in the literal and metaphorical sense.
- From where did Chrysanthemum derive her self-worth? From her peers.
- From where should self-worth really come? From God and from within.
- Did Chrysanthemum need to wait for Mrs. Twinkle to feel good about herself? No, but it helps to have someone to relate to–discuss why it’s important to surround ourselves with trusted people who support us.
- What would you do if you were Chrysanthemum?
- What would you do if someone in your class or one of your friends was being treated the way Chrysanthemum was treated by her classmates?
Mindful Muslim Review
What’s in a name? A whimsical story about self-worth and overcoming the challenges of childhood bullying. Chrysanthemum, normally proud of who she is and the name her parents have gifted her, begins to doubt the beauty of her name after enduring the persistent taunts of her classmates. Sometimes it takes someone else to remind us that we need to rise above the negativity and be true to our name–our heritage.
Teaching Tools
Genres: General Fiction
Series: Mouse Books
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
*This review applies only to ISBN number noted above.
