SuitabookOld Story New Twist
Rachel Wise
- Reading
- Read together in short stretches and pause when Samantha describes a strong feeling. Invite the reader to compare what she advises others with what she might choose for herself.
- Themes
- Advice and self-belief: Samantha encourages a shy letter-writer to try out for gymnastics, then realises that she would like to try out herself. The contrast invites reflection on whether giving advice can help someone recognise a wish of their own.
- Crushes and uncertainty: Samantha likes Michael and worries that being assigned to work with someone else may reduce their contact; her friend believes Michael likes her back. The opening presents Samantha’s interpretation and uncertainty, not a confirmed account of Michael’s feelings.
- Friendship and disagreement: Samantha’s best friend likes a boy Samantha cannot stand, leaving Samantha unsure how to express her opinion. The situation raises a question about speaking honestly while preserving a friendship; the book’s treatment of that tension is not established.
- Worth knowing
- Samantha describes hurt, frustration, sadness and fear when her usual work pairing with Michael changes. The extract does not establish how long these feelings last or how the situation develops.