Saffy's Angel by Hilary McKay After her grandfather dies, 13-year-old Saffy, the adopted daughter of a family of artists, begins looking for answers about her past. Saffy thinks she will find her answers in Italy, but will they be the answers she is expecting?

Discussion

Each of the Casson children is named after a color; does your name have any special meaning? Were you named for any one or thing significant?

When she is eight-years-old, Saffy learns she is adopted. Saffy's family is not a traditional family. What do you think makes a family? What is important and what is not?

What do you think of the Casson family? Do you know anyone like them? Do you wish you did?

Indigo wants to grow up and be a polar explorer; what do you want to be when you are older? Do you want to be the same thing you did when you were younger or has it changed as you have gotten older?

Rose likes to create edible art; what is your favorite type of art? Drawing? Clay? Collage?

Is art as important to you as it is to the Casson family? Why or why not?

Activity

Creating Edible Art: Beads of Paradise
From FamilyFun Magazine

Stuff You Need:

Lifesavers Candy
Elastic Cord

• Measure the elastic cord around your wrist, allowing an extra few inches for the knot.
• Simply thread on the candy; try alternating between regular-size and mini LifeSavers.
• When you're finished, tie the two ends of the elastic with a double knot.

Recipe

Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate
From The Gourmet Chocolate of the Month Club

Ingredients:

8 oz. milk
2-4 tsp Chocolate syrup
1 tbsp Peanut Butter
Whipped cream topping
Chocolate sprinkles

In a saucepan or in the microwave, heat the milk through. Skim off the top with a spoon if necessary. Stir in chocolate syrup. Stir in peanut butter until melted. Garnish with whipped cream topping and chocolate sprinkles.