Carry On: Simon Snow Trilogy
#1 of 3 in Simon Snow Series
on Goodreads (326,077)
What’s inside...
Carry On by Rainbow Rowell is a #1 New York Times best seller and a Booklist Editors' Choice for 2015. The story follows Simon Snow, the worst Chosen One ever chosen, during his last year at the Watford School of Magicks. With his nemesis and roommate Baz missing, his girlfriend having broken up with him, and a monster wearing his face wreaking havoc, Simon's final year is filled with challenges. The novel combines elements of a ghost story, a love story, and a mystery, featuring the signature combination of kissing, talking, and monsters that fans of Rowell's work have come to expect.
Character compass
Simon Snow
Agatha Wellbelove
Penelope Bunce
Tyrannus Basilton "Baz" Grimm-Pitch
Ebb Petty
The Mage
Discussion points
What challenges does Simon face and how do you think you would handle similar situations?
How do the relationships between the characters evolve throughout the story? What can we learn about friendship from these changes?
What role does magic play in the story? How does it help the characters solve problems or create new ones?
How does Simon's understanding of his own identity develop? How does this relate to the way we all come to understand ourselves better as we grow?
What themes in the book resonated with you the most and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child which character they felt most connected to and why, in order to ground the discussion in personal reflections.
Discuss the moral decisions characters make in the book, prompting your child to think about what they might do in similar situations.
Encourage your child to share their thoughts on how the book's magical elements influence the story, which can lead to a creative discussion about problem-solving.
Talk about the importance of personal growth and understanding, highlighted by Simon’s journey, to relate the discussion to your child’s experiences.
Use specific scenes from the book to anchor your discussion, asking your child how they felt during pivotal moments, to help them articulate emotional responses.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout 'Carry On: Simon Snow Trilogy', Simon faces numerous challenges but consistently pushes through adversity, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to tackle their obstacles - whether in their academic or personal lives - and understand that perseverance can lead to achieving their goals.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Simon's relationships with other characters in the book, especially Baz, show how trust and friendship can overcome differences and lead to strong, supportive bonds.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to appreciate diversity and build lasting, supportive friendships, fostering a sense of community and belonging in their lives.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: Simon struggles with his identity throughout the book, ultimately learning to accept himself for who he is, which is a crucial step in his personal growth.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to embrace their unique qualities and differences, promoting a positive self-image and confidence as they grow.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of fear
Explanation: Characters frequently face fears and choose to act bravely, showing that courage is not the absence of fear but the decision to face it head-on.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of facing their fears, whether it's trying out for a team, standing up for themselves or others, or tackling a difficult task.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision-making
Explanation: The characters often face complex situations requiring them to make tough choices, highlighting the nuances of right and wrong.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to consider the consequences of their actions and make decisions that align with their values, which is vital for their moral development.