Dark Visions: The Strange Power; The Possessed; The Passion
#1 of 3 in Visions Series
What’s inside...
Dark Visions, a trilogy by L.J. Smith, is a supernatural young adult series that follows the journey of Kaitlyn Fairchild, a girl with psychic abilities. In 'The Strange Power', Kaitlyn is recruited to join a group of similarly gifted teens at the Zetes Institute, where they are supposed to hone their powers for good. However, Kaitlyn soon discovers that the institute has darker motives. 'The Possessed' sees the group on the run from the institute, facing internal and external dangers as their powers grow and they struggle to stay together and survive. In 'The Passion', the final book, the teenagers take the fight back to the institute, uncovering secrets that tie their destinies together, and Kaitlyn must make choices that could change their lives forever. Throughout the series, themes of friendship, trust, and love are woven with the challenges of harnessing extraordinary abilities.
Character compass
Kaitlyn Fairchild
Anna Eva Whiteraven
Lewis Chiao
Gabriel Wolfe
Rob Kessler
Joyce Piper
Mr. Zetes
Lewis Chao
Discussion points
How do the characters in 'Dark Visions' handle challenges and what can we learn from them?
What are your thoughts on how the characters' powers influence their relationships?
How do you think the story would change if you were in it with the same powers?
Which character did you feel the most connected to and why?
What lessons can we take from the conflicts and resolutions presented in the trilogy?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to consider the characters' perspectives and relate them to their own experiences. Use comparisons to real-life situations to deepen the conversation. Highlight the moral and ethical questions raised in the book to discuss values and decision-making. Lastly, remember to listen actively to your child's viewpoints and engage with follow-up questions to encourage deeper thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and accepting differences
Explanation: The book portrays characters with supernatural abilities, highlighting themes of diversity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate individual differences in their peers and promotes inclusivity in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the story often need to collaborate to solve problems, emphasizing the importance of working together to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cooperate with others in group tasks at school or in team sports, understanding that collective effort often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and the consequences of one's actions
Explanation: The protagonists must navigate the outcomes of their choices, which are linked to their supernatural powers, teaching readers about accountability.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the impact of their decisions on themselves and others, fostering a sense of responsibility in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: The characters frequently confront dangerous and unfamiliar situations, showing bravery and growth.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their own fears and challenges, whether at school, in social situations, or in trying new activities.
Example Lesson: The importance of self-discovery
Explanation: Throughout the series, characters explore and come to terms with their own identities and abilities, illustrating a journey of self-discovery.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore their own talents and interests, and embrace their unique identities.