About This Book
The Golden Hour introduces readers to Manuel Soto, a young boy grappling with significant anxiety following a traumatic instance of gun violence. Manuel finds a unique coping mechanism in photography, using his cell phone camera to capture moments that ground him and help him process his feelings. The story explores themes of loneliness, resilience, and the power of creative expression as Manuel navigates his 'latchkey monotony' and begins to form new connections when he's unexpectedly teamed with another individual. This chapter book offers a gentle yet profound look at trauma recovery and finding one's voice.
Struggling with anxiety after witnessing a harrowing instance of gun violence, Manuel Soto copes through photography, using his cell-phone camera to find anchors that keep him grounded. His days are a lonely, latchkey monotony until he's teamed with
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Discussion Prompts
1
Manuel uses photography to help him feel grounded. What are some things you do when you feel worried or anxious?
2
How does Manuel's photography help him connect with the world around him, and with other people?
3
Manuel feels lonely at the beginning of the story. How does his situation change, and what helps him feel more connected?
4
What does 'the golden hour' mean in the book, and what does it represent for Manuel?
5
Have you ever felt scared or worried like Manuel? What helped you feel brave again?
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