Beautiful Creatures
#1 of 1 in Caster Chronicles Series
on Goodreads (613,096)
What’s inside...
Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she's struggling to conceal her power, and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever. Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town's oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them. In a town with no surprises, one secret could change everything.
Character compass
Ethan Wate
Lena Duchannes
Wesley "Link" Lincoln
Marian Ashcroft
Amma
Macon Ravenwood
Mrs. Lincoln
Sarafine Duchannes
Ridley Duchannes
Amma Treadeau
Discussion points
What do you think are the most significant challenges that Lena faces? How would you handle them if you were in her shoes?
How do you feel about the way Lena and Ethan support each other? Can you think of a time when a friend helped you through a tough situation?
The concept of 'Casters' and 'Mortals' is central to the story. What do you think these represent, and how do they compare to real-life situations?
What did you learn about the importance of choices and consequences from Lena's journey?
How do you think the setting of Gatlin influences the story? What impact does our environment have on our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the characters' shoes, fostering empathy and deeper understanding of personal challenges.
Discuss the importance of supportive relationships and teamwork by using examples from both the book and personal experiences your child might relate to.
Highlight the moral dilemmas and choices faced by characters. Ask your child what they would do differently, promoting critical thinking.
Explore themes of identity and belonging with your child, relating them to the book’s context and to your child’s own experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: The characters in 'Beautiful Creatures' come from various backgrounds and possess unique abilities. This diversity is portrayed positively, demonstrating acceptance and unity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace differences among their peers, fostering an inclusive environment at school and in their community.
Example Lesson: The Power of Choice
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters are often faced with choices between right and wrong. This highlights the importance of personal responsibility and the impact of decisions.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of making thoughtful choices, emphasizing that their actions have consequences that affect themselves and others.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The protagonists support each other through their challenges, illustrating the strength and importance of true friendship.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the significance of supporting their friends and being reliable companions in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: Characters in the story confront their fears to protect their loved ones and uphold their beliefs, showcasing bravery.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their fears and stand up for what they believe in, whether at school, home, or within their communities.
Example Lesson: Understanding and Forgiveness
Explanation: The story explores themes of misunderstanding and the power of forgiveness, as characters learn to see beyond first impressions and forgive past wrongs.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to practice empathy, understanding, and forgiveness in their daily interactions, contributing to their emotional and social development.