A Song Below Water
#1 of 2 in A Song Below Water Series
on Goodreads (11,745)
What’s inside...
Tavia is a siren living in Portland, Oregon, a city with limited diversity and magical beings. She conceals her identity in a society that oppresses sirens, leaning on her best friend Effie for support as they navigate high school and personal challenges. Their lives are upended when a siren murder trial gains national attention and their favorite fashion icon reveals she's a siren too. Tensions rise as Effie confronts demons from her past and Tavia accidentally exposes her magical voice, threatening to unveil their secrets and disrupt their lives in Portland.
Character compass
Tavia
Effie
Naema Bradshaw
Discussion points
How do you think Tavia feels about having to hide her true identity as a siren? What would you do if you were in her shoes?
Why do you think it's important for Tavia and Effie to support each other? Can you think of a time when a friend helped you through a tough situation?
The theme of injustice is central in the story. What are some ways that Tavia and Effie fight against the injustices they face?
How do the different characters in the book react to the reveal of supernatural beings? What does this tell us about fear and misunderstanding?
What did you learn about the power of voice and self-expression from Tavia's journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters' situations, promoting empathy and understanding.
Relate the story’s themes to real-world events or personal experiences to make the discussion more relevant and engaging.
Ask your child to consider different characters’ perspectives to enhance critical thinking and perspective-taking skills.
Discuss the significance of friendship and support systems in overcoming challenges, drawing parallels to your child’s own life.
Highlight the importance of standing up against injustice, and ask your child how they might act in similar situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding one's identity
Explanation: In 'A Song Below Water', Tavia, a siren, struggles with hiding her true identity in a world that doesn't accept her kind. Through her journey, she learns the importance of embracing who she is.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and affirm their own identities, promoting self-confidence and resilience in the face of societal pressures.
Example Lesson: The power of sisterhood and friendship
Explanation: The bond between Tavia and her sister Effie is pivotal in the story, showing how support and understanding from loved ones is crucial during challenging times.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to foster strong, supportive relationships and to be there for friends and family members in need.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, Tavia faces various hardships due to her identity but continuously finds the strength to persevere and advocate for herself.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to navigate challenges with determination, using their inner strength to overcome obstacles and advocate for themselves.
Example Lesson: The importance of voice
Explanation: Tavia's journey highlights the significance of finding one’s voice and using it to speak out against injustice and inequality.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to express themselves confidently and stand up for what they believe in, recognizing the impact their voice can have in making a difference.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As readers see the world through Tavia’s eyes, they gain insight into the challenges faced by those who are misunderstood or marginalized.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop empathy, fostering a greater understanding and respect for people’s differences and struggles in their everyday interactions.