Afterglow
#2 of 2 in Golden Boys Series
on Goodreads (1,099)
What’s inside...
After a summer of life-changing events, four friends are ready to tackle their senior year. Gabriel is excited to create his school's first LGBTQ+ advocacy group but struggles with a long-distance relationship. Heath's future depends on a baseball scholarship, but his anxiety about pitching is growing. Reese pursues a career in fashion design but discovers his creativity leading him somewhere unexpected. Sal, inspired by his aunt, aims for a career in local politics. As graduation approaches, they face the realization that their friendship may change as they step into the real world. In this sequel to his bestselling novel, Phil Stamper explores the challenges and changes the Golden Boys face during their final high school year.
Discussion points
What feelings did you experience while reading 'Afterglow'? Can you describe them?
Which character in 'Afterglow' did you relate to the most and why?
What do you think was the most important lesson from the book? How can you apply it in your own life?
How did the characters change from the beginning to the end of the story?
If you could ask the author one question about the book, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading the book, ask your child what they expect the story to be about based on the cover and title.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings for the book and discuss why they think those endings could be possible.
After reading a chapter, pause to predict what might happen next, fostering analytical thinking.
Discuss the motivations behind characters’ actions to enhance empathy and understanding of complex emotions.
Create a family book club where each member shares their perspective on the book, promoting a shared family reading experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Afterglow', characters often face dilemmas where they must consider the feelings and perspectives of others, promoting empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by recognizing and respecting the feelings and viewpoints of peers and family members in real life situations.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters achieve goals through cooperation, highlighting the importance and effectiveness of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn to work collaboratively at school or in sports, understanding that teamwork can lead to greater success.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The protagonist has specific duties to perform, which teaches children about the importance of being responsible.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child's everyday life by encouraging them to take charge of their own tasks, such as homework or chores.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The book presents characters with challenges that they must solve creatively, encouraging critical thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can utilize these problem-solving skills to navigate academic challenges or resolve conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: The Value of Perseverance
Explanation: Characters face setbacks but continue to strive towards their goals, demonstrating perseverance.
Real-World Application: This instills in children the importance of persistence in overcoming personal obstacles, whether in learning new skills or achieving goals in sports and education.