For Ant, winning the community spades tournament is everything. But what if winning the game means losing his dad’s respect?
“Playing the Cards You’re Dealt” is an award winning heartfelt novel that tackles complex themes through the lens of family, tradition, and resilience. Ten-year-old Anthony “Ant” Joplin is determined to win his small town’s annual spades tournament, like generations of Joplin’s before him. But when Ant’s best friend is grounded, he reluctantly teams up with Shirley, a sharp-witted new classmate, to compete. As Ant navigates the pressures of the tournament, he uncovers his father’s relapse into alcoholism and gambling, forcing him to confront toxic expectations of masculinity and what it truly means to be “strong.” Johnson balances Ant’s emotional journey with humor and warmth, weaving in insights about community, trust, and self-discovery.
This book is a powerful tool for exploring SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, particularly its focus on mental health and addiction. Ant’s struggle to reconcile his love for his father with the harm caused by addiction provides a nuanced entry point for discussing substance abuse’s impact on families. Educators can use this story to spark conversations about healthy coping mechanisms, emotional vulnerability, and breaking cycles of harmful behavior. Ant’s growth as he learns that integrity isn’t about rigid traditions but about doing what’s right, even when it means challenging family norms, is an authentic demonstration of learning to be Principled.
Consider giving reading groups role-playing activities where students analyze Ant’s choices or host a classroom spades tournament (using the book’s clear gameplay explanations) to explore teamwork and fairness. Johnson’s approachable writing and relatable character make tough topics accessible, empowering students to reflect on their values and advocate for well-being in their own families, classrooms, and communities.
