Firefight: The Reckoners
#2 of 3 in The Reckoners Series
on Goodreads (108,276)
What’s inside...
Babylon Restored, formerly Manhattan, may give David answers. Ruled by the mysterious High Epic, Regalia, David is sure Babylon Restored will lead him to what he needs to find. And while entering another city oppressed by a High Epic despot is a gamble, David's willing to risk it. Because killing Steelheart left a hole in David's heart. A hole where his thirst for vengeance once lived. Somehow, he filled that hole with another Epic—Firefight. And he's willing to go on a quest darker, and more dangerous even, than the fight against Steelheart to find her, and to get his answers.
Character compass
David Charleston
Mizzy
Tia
Megan Tarash
Exel
Val
Jonathan Phaedrus
Newton
Regalia
Obliteration
Discussion points
What qualities make David a strong leader and how can you apply these traits in your own life?
How do the Reckoners work together to fight against the Epics, and why is teamwork important?
What are the moral challenges the characters face, and how do they handle them?
Imagine you had an Epic's powers—how would you use them, and why?
How does the setting of a dystopian world affect the characters and their decisions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare and contrast the characters' decisions in the book with how they might handle similar situations.
Discuss the theme of good versus evil and ask your child about the gray areas they noticed in the characters' behavior.
Explore the concept of fear and bravery by asking your child about moments in the book where characters had to make tough choices.
Use examples from the book to talk about the importance of having goals and the steps the characters take to achieve them.
Prompt your child to talk about their favorite character and why they relate to or admire them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, David, consistently demonstrates bravery as he confronts powerful adversaries in a dystopian world dominated by supervillains.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of facing challenges head-on and not being deterred by fear, applying this courage to overcoming personal obstacles such as standing up against bullying or trying new activities.
Example Lesson: Persistence pays off
Explanation: David's tireless effort to study the Epics and find their weaknesses, even when others doubt his methods, highlights the value of persistent dedication to achieve goals.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the benefit of consistent effort in their studies, sports, or hobbies, reinforcing that success often comes from perseverance.
Example Lesson: The power of teamwork
Explanation: David joins forces with the Reckoners to take down the Epics. His journey underscores the effectiveness of working collectively towards a common goal, despite differences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of cooperation and communication in group projects at school or in team sports, recognizing that collective efforts can achieve greater outcomes than individual actions alone.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and strategy
Explanation: Throughout the book, David and the Reckoners must strategize to find the best approach to defeat the Epics, teaching the importance of planning and tactical thinking.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to think strategically in problem-solving situations in school or in social settings, helping them to weigh options and make more informed decisions.
Example Lesson: Moral integrity
Explanation: Despite the harsh realities of his world, David maintains a strong moral compass, choosing to fight for good rather than succumb to the corrupting influence of power.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to uphold their own values and ethics, even when faced with peer pressure or challenging moral dilemmas.