Dead Jealous
#1 in Poppy Sinclair Series
on Goodreads (533)
What’s inside...
People think of Mother Nature as a gentle lady. They forget that she's also Death. Sixteen-year-old Poppy Sinclair believes in quantum particles, not tarot cards, in Dawkins, not druids. Last summer, in a boating accident in the Lake District, Poppy had a brush with death. But the girl she finds face down in Scariswater hasn't been so lucky. As she fights to discover the truth behind what she believes is murder, Poppy is forced to concede that people and things are not always what they seem and, slipping ever deeper into a web of lies, jealousy and heart-stopping danger, she comes to realise - too late - that the one thing that can save her has been right there, all the time.
Character compass
Poppy Sinclair
Michael
Martyn
Poppy'S Mother
Discussion points
How do you think Poppy felt when she discovered her sister's secret? What would you do in her situation?
What did you learn about trust and friendship from the characters' experiences in 'Dead Jealous'?
Why is it important to be honest with our friends and family, like the characters in the book?
How do the characters change from the beginning to the end of the story, and what causes these changes?
What would you have done differently if you were in Poppy's position?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in the protagonist's shoes.
Use examples from the book to discuss the consequences of actions, ensuring children understand cause and effect.
Explore the theme of trust by discussing pivotal moments in the book where trust is gained or broken.
Highlight the growth of characters to teach resilience and adaptability in difficult situations.
Lastly, keep the conversation light and engaging, allowing your child to express their thoughts and opinions freely.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Empathy
Explanation: In 'Dead Jealous,' the protagonist, Poppy Sinclair, displays empathy as she investigates her friend's murky circumstances, showing that understanding others' feelings is crucial.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy in their daily lives by considering their friends' perspectives and offering support during difficult times.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Trust
Explanation: Throughout the story, the development of trust among characters highlights its value in relationships. Poppy learns who she can depend on as the mystery unfolds.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to build and value trust within their friendships and family relations, teaching them the foundation of strong relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Poppy faces numerous challenges and dangers but her perseverance demonstrates resilience, an essential trait for overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to stay determined and resilient in face of challenges, whether it's completing a difficult school project or resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Explanation: Poppy's approach to solving the mystery requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills, showing how these skills lead to uncovering truth.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to apply critical thinking in everyday situations, such as analyzing stories or solving school-related problems.