Keena Ford and the field trip mix-up

It may give children a recognisable protagonist whose good intentions do not prevent consequences. The Capitol setting and student-council campaign also offer openings to discuss public places, responsibility and recovering from mistakes.

Pay attention to how Tiffany’s teasing is handled and whether the story distinguishes intention from impact. The cutting incident and staircase mishap may merit a brief check-in.

If Keena is trying to do the right thing, what could she notice earlier about the likely effects of her choices? How might teasing, campaigning and responsibility be handled fairly?

Read alongside Keena rather than treating every mishap as a lesson.