Black River Falls
on Goodreads (595)
What’s inside...
Seventeen-year-old Cardinal has escaped the virus that ravaged his town, leaving its victims alive but without their memories. He chooses to remain in the quarantined zone, caring for a group of orphaned kids in a mountain camp with the help of the former brutal school bully, now transformed by the virus into his best friend. But then a strong-willed and mysterious young woman appears, and the closed-off world Cardinal has created begins to crumble. A thrilling, fast-paced work of speculative fiction for teens, from a bestselling author, Black River Falls is an unforgettable story about survival, identity, and family.
Age
11-12
Length
336 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Cardinal Cassidy
Hannah
Greer
Discussion points
How do you think Carter feels when he can't remember his past? Can you relate to his confusion?
What would you do if you found yourself in a situation similar to the residents of Black River Falls?
Why do you think it's important to remember your history? How does it shape who you are?
What role do friendships play in the book? Can you share a personal story about how a friend helped you in a difficult time?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the challenges the characters face. Be open to deep conversations about memory and identity, and share personal experiences related to overcoming obstacles or the importance of knowing one’s own history. Highlight the significance of empathy and understanding when discussing character interactions and decisions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Black River Falls', characters face hardships and moral dilemmas, encouraging readers to understand and empathize with their struggles.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy by acknowledging the feelings and perspectives of others in their daily interactions, promoting a more inclusive and understanding environment.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist in 'Black River Falls' encounters various challenges, demonstrating the importance of perseverance and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their personal obstacles with determination, whether it’s tackling a difficult subject in school or dealing with social conflicts.
Example Lesson: The importance of memory and identity
Explanation: The story explores themes of memory loss and its impact on personal identity, highlighting how our experiences shape who we are.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate their own life experiences and understand how they contribute to their sense of self.
Example Lesson: Consequences of choices
Explanation: Characters in the book make crucial decisions that have significant consequences, teaching the importance of thoughtful decision-making.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to consider the potential outcomes of their choices and the effect they may have on themselves and others.