Bloomability

Name: Bloomability
ISBN: 9780061784682

by Sharon Creech

When Dinnie Doone is sent to an international boarding school in Switzerland, her world of constant change is replaced by new cultures, friendships, and a chance to truly find herself. She learns to e

About This Book

Sharon Creech's 'Bloomability' follows 13-year-old Dinnie Doone, whose life of constant movement and family instability in the US is dramatically altered when her aunt and uncle whisk her away to an international boarding school in Lugano, Switzerland. Initially struggling with homesickness and culture shock, Dinnie gradually finds her footing amidst a diverse group of friends from around the world. Through new experiences, cultural immersion, and the stability of a consistent environment, Dinnie learns to trust herself and embrace the 'bloomabilities' or possibilities her new life offers. This heartwarming story explores themes of self-discovery, belonging, and resilience, making it ideal for middle-grade readers navigating change or seeking a sense of identity.

Set in the breathtaking landscape of Lugano, Switzerland, Bloomabilityis Sharon Creech at her very best.When 13-year-old Dinnie Doone is plucked out of her troubled life by her aunt and uncle and whisked away to an international school in Switzerland, her world is turned upside down. Suddenly surrounded by different cultures, languages, and beliefs, Dinnie struggles to holdon to her past life. Gradually, through friendships and experiences she could have nowhere else, she learns to trust herself and discovers the beautiful "bloomabilities" her new life has to offer.01 Blue Spruce Award Masterlist (YA Cat.), 00-01 Young Hoosier Book Award Masterlist (Grds. 6-8), Pacific NW Library Assoc. 2001 Young Reader's Choice Award Masterlist, and 00-01 South Carolina Book Award Masterlist(Grds 6-9) Young Adult's Choices for 2000 (IRA)

Concepts

Self-Confidence & Identity Loneliness & Belonging Resilience & Perseverance Friendship & Loyalty Curiosity & Wonder Love & Family Empathy & Kindness Freedom & Independence Moving Making Friends Being Different Growing Up Cultural Identity Financial Hardship Friendship & Social Family & Siblings

Heads up, parents

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Discussion Prompts

How does Dinnie's definition of 'home' change throughout the book? What does home mean to you?

The word 'bloomability' is invented by Keisuke. What does it mean to Dinnie, and what does it mean to you?

How do Dinnie's friendships with Lila, Guthrie, Keisuke, Belen, and Mari help her grow and adapt to her new life?

Dinnie's family life in America was very different from her life in Switzerland. How did these differences impact her, and what did she learn from both experiences?

What challenges did Dinnie face when adjusting to a new culture and language? How did she overcome them?

The book has an open ending about Dinnie's choice. What do you think she decided, and why?

External Reviews

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