About This Book
Amy Goldman Koss's 'The Not-So-Great Depression' is a timely and empathetic novel that follows ninth-grader Jacki as her family navigates the sudden onset of financial hardship. When her mother is laid off, Jacki must confront the realities of unemployment, budget cuts, and the social implications of changing economic status, particularly within the context of her private school. The book thoughtfully explores themes of resilience, family love, friendship, and self-identity as Jacki learns to adapt to her new circumstances and gains a deeper understanding of the world around her. It's a poignant story about finding strength and new perspectives during difficult times.
A TIMELY, WARMHEARTED NOVEL ABOUT LIFE IN HARD ECONOMIC TIMES. Jacki’s ninth–grade teacher is always going on about the unemployment index and the recession, but nothing sinks in until her mom is laid off and everything seems to cost more than they can afford. Acclaimed author Amy Goldman Koss delivers a warm hearted and timely tale about the things we lose and the insights we gain.
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Discussion Prompts
1
How does Jacki's understanding of money and her family's situation change throughout the book?
2
What are some of the ways Jacki and her family cope with their financial challenges? What would you do in their situation?
3
How do Jacki's friendships evolve as she deals with her family's economic changes? Have you ever felt a difference in economic status between you and your friends?
4
The book is titled 'The Not-So-Great Depression.' What do you think the author means by that title?
5
What lessons does Jacki learn about resilience and what truly matters in life?
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