Fork-Tongue Charmers: The Luck Uglies
#2 of 3 in The Luck Uglies Series
What’s inside...
The Luck Uglies face their greatest enemies in this thrilling sequel to the critically acclaimed first book in the series, hailed by Kirkus in a starred review as a sparkling must-read! The Luck Uglies is a perfect match for fans of Chris Colfer's Land of Stories books and Joseph Delaney's Last Apprentice series. This second installment ratchets up the humor, charm, and adventure, taking the series to brand-new heights!
Rye O Chanter was shocked to discover that her father was the leader of the notorious band of outlaws known as the Luck Uglies. Now she too has been declared a criminal in her own village, and she must flee to the strange and remote Isle of Pest while her father faces off against the Luck Uglies bitter rivals, the Fork-Tongue-Charmers, on the mainland.
But all bets are off when the battle moves to the shores of Pest. To defeat the Fork-Tongue Charmers, Rye must defy a deranged earl, survive a test meant to judge the grit of the fiercest men, and lead the charge in defending the island against a strangely familiar enemy, which means uncovering some long-buried family secrets.
The first Luck Uglies book was named an ALA Notable Children's Book as well as a New York Public Library Title for Reading and Sharing, and it won the Cybil Award for Middle Grade Speculative Fiction.
Character compass
Riley O'Chanter
Harmless
Discussion points
What do you think makes the Luck Uglies unique as a group? How do they compare to other groups or communities you know?
How do the characters in the book display courage and teamwork? Can you share a time when you had to be brave or work with others to solve a problem?
What role does trust play in the relationships between characters in the story? Have you ever faced a situation where trust was important?
How do the settings in the book contribute to the mood or atmosphere of the story? Can you imagine yourself in any of these places?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, give a brief overview of the plot and characters to set the stage for your child.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite character or scene in detail, fostering a deeper connection to the story.
After reading, connect themes from the book to real-life scenarios your child may encounter, enhancing their understanding and empathy.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next in the story or in a hypothetical continuation, building their analytical and creative thinking skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and bravery
Explanation: In 'Fork-Tongue Charmers,' the characters frequently face dangerous situations that require bravery to overcome challenges and protect their community.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and loyalty
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonists rely on the strength of their friendships to navigate their perilous journey, demonstrating how loyalty and teamwork are essential.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of building strong relationships and supporting friends in times of need.
Example Lesson: The consequences of choices
Explanation: Characters in the story make various choices which lead to different outcomes, showing that actions have consequences.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to think about the potential outcomes of their actions and make thoughtful decisions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The main characters encounter numerous setbacks but continue to persevere, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain determined and hopeful, even when facing difficulties.
Example Lesson: Questioning authority and fairness
Explanation: As the characters challenge questionable rules and authority figures, the book explores themes of justice and fairness.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically about fairness and advocate for just treatment in their own lives.