Even and Odd
on Goodreads (307)
What’s inside...
Even and Odd are sisters who share magic, but have different feelings about it. Odd doesn't like magic, while Even practices it every chance she gets, dreaming of being a hero. When the border between the mundane world and the magical land they were born in suddenly closes, the sisters find themselves trapped. With the help of a unicorn named Jeremy, they discover a wizard is stealing magic to increase her own power, causing families to be separated and an ecological disaster to unfold. Even realizes she must take action now to stop the wizard and become the hero she has always wanted to be.
Age
8-12
Length
288 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Even
Odd
Jeremy
Discussion points
How do you think Even and Odd felt when their magic stopped working, and how would you feel in their place?
What do you think the story tells us about teamwork and helping each other out?
Can you think of a time when you had to work with someone else to solve a problem? What was that like?
Why do you think it's important to have both ordinary and magical moments in our lives?
What did you learn about the differences and similarities between our world and the magical world?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate the magical elements to real-life scenarios to make the concepts more relatable.
Encourage your child to imagine their own magical world. Ask them what rules would exist and how it would differ from the real world.
Use expressions and gestures to bring the story to life, enhancing the magical theme and keeping your child engaged.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character. This helps deepen their connection to the story and fosters creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Even and Odd', the titular characters, sisters with magical abilities, must work together to solve problems and overcome obstacles. Their strengths complement each other, demonstrating how collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value cooperation by working with others in group projects at school or participating in team sports, understanding that combined efforts often achieve more than working solo.
Example Lesson: Accepting differences
Explanation: Throughout the story, Even and Odd have different personalities and abilities, yet they learn to embrace their differences. This theme encourages acceptance and appreciation of diversity.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of embracing diversity among peers, promoting inclusivity and respect in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The sisters have a duty to manage their magical powers wisely. The story illustrates the consequences of misuse and the importance of responsible behavior.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this to managing their own responsibilities, whether it's homework, chores, or personal relationships, understanding that their actions have consequences.
Example Lesson: Believing in oneself
Explanation: Even and Odd often face self-doubt, but they learn to trust in their own abilities to face challenges. The narrative promotes self-confidence and resilience.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to have confidence in their capabilities and to persevere through difficulties, fostering a resilient and positive mindset.
Example Lesson: Importance of family
Explanation: The strong bond between Even and Odd highlights the significance of family support. They rely on each other not just for magical endeavors but emotional support as well.
Real-World Application: This can reinforce the value of family bonds to children, teaching them to appreciate and support family members in their daily lives.