Cold
on Goodreads (2,332)
What’s inside...
Todd Mayer is dead. Now he's some sort of ghost, hovering over his body, which has just been found in the town park, naked and frozen in the snow. As detectives investigate Todd's homicide, talking to the very people who are responsible for how he died, Todd replays the events that lead him to his end in the park. Georgia didn't know Todd. But she can't stop thinking about him. Maybe because they're both outcasts at their school, or because they're both queer. It might also be because Georgia has a feeling she's seen Todd somewhere before, somewhere he wasn't supposed to be.
Age
12-18
Length
230 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Todd Mayer
Georgia
Discussion points
How did the characters in 'Cold' react to challenges and what can we learn from their reactions?
Why do you think friendship is important in 'Cold'? How would the story change without it?
What feelings did you experience while reading 'Cold'? Which parts made you feel that way?
If you were in the story, what would you have done differently?
How do Mariko Tamaki's illustrations help tell the story? Can you think of any symbols she might have used?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use praise to encourage your child’s thoughts and opinions about the story, affirming that all interpretations are valuable.
Refer to specific characters and situations in the book to draw parallel with real-life scenarios your child might relate to.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to develop creative thinking.
As you discuss the book, allow your child to express their feelings about the book’s themes and characters, fostering emotional intelligence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Cold,' the protagonist encounters characters from diverse backgrounds and situations, which teaches them to understand and empathize with different perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by showing compassion and empathy towards classmates and friends who may be different from them.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Face of Challenges
Explanation: The story showcases the protagonist facing and overcoming various obstacles, emphasizing the importance of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children learn to tackle their own challenges, whether in school or in personal endeavors, with determination and resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, the value of forming strong bonds and supporting friends in tough times is highlighted.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to value and nurture friendships, which is essential for emotional and social development.
Example Lesson: Accepting Change
Explanation: Characters in 'Cold' undergo significant changes, and the narrative helps children understand that change is a constant and natural part of life.
Real-World Application: Kids can better cope with transitions such as moving to a new school or welcoming a sibling, viewing change as an opportunity for growth.
Example Lesson: Courage to Be Oneself
Explanation: The protagonist's journey encourages embracing individuality and expressing one's true self.
Real-World Application: It inspires children to be confident in their own skin and to celebrate their unique traits and talents.