About This Book
"The Breakaways" is a heartfelt graphic novel following Faith, a sensitive girl navigating the anxieties of starting middle school and finding her place. When she's convinced to join the school's C-team soccer squad, she finds herself among a diverse group of misfits who are terrible at the sport but exceptional at forming genuine connections. The story beautifully explores themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and teamwork, challenging conventional notions of success. It's a raw and honest look at middle school social dynamics, perfect for readers aged 8-12, though the publisher lists 4-11. The graphic novel format makes complex emotions accessible.
Discussion Prompts
1
How does Faith change from the beginning of the book to the end? What helps her grow?
2
What does it mean to be a good friend, even when you're different from each other?
3
The Bloodhounds C-team isn't good at soccer, but they become good at something else. What is it, and why is it important?
4
Have you ever felt like you didn't fit in? What did you do?
5
What lessons about teamwork can we learn from Faith and her teammates?
