Wilder Kate’s Classroom Discussion
Teacher’s Corner:
A Note from Lolli
Welcome to Camp Run Amuck!
I'm Lolli, and before campfires, muddy boots, and grandkids filled my days, I spent many happy years as a third-grade teacher. One thing I learned is that some of the very best lessons don't come from a worksheet, they come from a good story and the conversations that follow.
Around camp, we never rush to the next chapter. We stop, wonder, laugh, ask questions, and sometimes change our minds. Every camper has a different idea to share, and that's exactly how great readers grow.
Inside this Teacher's Corner guide you'll find the kinds of questions we'd ask around the campfire, along with writing ideas and cross-curricular connections for Grades 3–6. There aren't any right answers here, just opportunities for thoughtful conversations.
So gather your readers, pull up a chair, and join us around the campfire.
We'll save a seat and some cookies for you.
— Lolli
Camp Run Amuck’s Official Retired 3rd Grade Teacher
Wilder Kate Under the Broadway Lights
Before You Read
Have you ever had a dream that felt much bigger than your hometown?
Is natural talent enough to succeed, or does every talent need training?
What place makes you feel most like yourself?
During Reading
A Bigger Stage
Wilder Kate has always sung for neighbors, campfires, and community events. Why does performing at the Lyric feel so different?
Finn tells Wilder the truth about conservatory life instead of what she wants to hear. Why is an honest friend sometimes more valuable than a supportive one?
Expectations
Vora expects perfection every day. Do you think great teachers should push students beyond their comfort zones? Why or why not?
Wilder begins to miss Lawhoma Hills. Can you chase a dream and still miss home?
Finding Balance
Wilder's voice is her gift, but it's also something that can be injured. Why do you think taking care of a talent is just as important as having one?
Why does Wilder keep her mother's bracelet close, even when she can't wear it the usual way? What does it represent?
Community
When Wilder returns home, her family and neighbors don't tell her to quit—they help her heal. How is encouragement different from rescuing someone?
Why do you think Mr. Ashe insists on rebuilding Wilder's voice slowly instead of rushing her back onto the stage?
The Return
Wilder earns a supporting role instead of the lead. Why is that still a victory?
What do you think meant more to Wilder: the role she earned or seeing an entire charter bus of Lawhoma Hills cheering for her?
After Reading
How did Wilder's definition of success change from the beginning of the story?
What role did Finn play in helping Wilder grow?
Why do you think Vora became an important teacher, even though she wasn't always gentle?
What did Wilder learn during the months she spent healing that she couldn't have learned while performing?
If Wilder had become the lead immediately, would the story have been stronger or weaker? Why?
What does this book teach about patience and discipline?
Can someone stay true to their hometown while following a dream somewhere else?
Do you think Wilder will one day perform on Broadway? Why or why not?
Campfire Question
Is success measured by the role you earn...or by the person you become while earning it?
Behind the Research
Wilder Kate Under the Broadway Lights is grounded in extensive research about vocal health, musical theatre training, audition preparation, and conservatory programs. While Wilder Kate, Vora Michelson, and the conservatory in this story are fictional, the book was inspired by Oklahoma's vibrant performing arts community and the dedication young performers bring to their craft.
Extension Activity: Invite students to research a local theatre, youth performing arts program, or community production in their own area. How do these organizations help young artists grow?
Want to learn more? The book includes a special author's note introducing readers to Oklahoma's rich musical theatre tradition and the inspiration behind Wilder Kate's journey.
Lawhoma Hills, Oklahoma
