FaceSpace (Orca Currents)
Orca Currents Series
on Goodreads (56)
What’s inside...
Danny McBride, an unpopular high school student, spends his Saturdays playing Parcheesi with his mom and building a Lego city. Desperate to be popular, he invents a fictional British rocker named James and befriends him online, hoping the cool persona will help him gain friends. His plan works and he starts to feel accepted, but things take a turn when people want to meet the imaginary James, causing Danny's plan to unravel.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think about the way characters interacted on FaceSpace? How does it compare to real-life interactions?
How did the characters' choices on the platform affect their real-world relationships?
What lessons did the characters learn about online behavior, and how can you apply those lessons to your own life?
Do you think the portrayal of technology in this book is positive, negative, or a mix of both? Why?
If you could give any character in the book advice on their online activities, what would you say?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own experiences with social media and technology to set a relatable ground for discussion. Emphasize the importance of kindness and responsibility in both digital and real-life interactions. Encourage your child to think critically about how they present themselves online and the potential long-term effects. Praise thoughtful responses and insights to boost their confidence in discussing complex topics. Use examples from the book to highlight practical ways to handle online dilemmas and maintain healthy relationships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of online safety
Explanation: FaceSpace portrays the risks associated with sharing personal information on social media platforms.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to navigate the internet more cautiously, ensuring they understand privacy settings and the implications of their online activities.
Example Lesson: The value of true friendship
Explanation: The book highlights how real friends help and support each other, especially when facing challenges.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to choose friends wisely and to be a good friend in return, offering support and understanding in various situations.
Example Lesson: Consequences of peer pressure
Explanation: The characters in the story face situations where they have to make tough decisions influenced by friends, which demonstrates the impact of peer pressure.
Real-World Application: It helps children learn the importance of thinking for themselves and making choices that reflect their values, even if it means standing apart from the crowd.