Freaks
#1 of 5 in The Legends of Eerie-on-Sea Series
on Goodreads (815)
What’s inside...
The Freaks are a group of extraordinary individuals with unusual abilities who are part of a nightly Victorian sideshow. The group includes Wolf-girl, Sheba, with her incredible sense of smell; Sister Moon, who possesses the ability to move at the speed of light; and Monkey Boy, a skilled climber and human stink bomb. Although part of a sideshow, during the day, the Freaks use their unique talents to solve mysteries that commonly go unnoticed. They focus on sinister crimes, such as child-snatching, grave-robbing, and confronting dastardly doctors, dedicating themselves to protecting the city's most vulnerable - the street urchins disappearing from London streets.
Character compass
Sheba
Sister Moon
Monkeyboy
Mama Rat
Gigantus
Mr. Plumpscuttle
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make someone a hero like Sheba or Monkeyboy in the story?
How do the 'freaks' in the book use their unique abilities to help each other and overcome challenges?
Why do you think the people in the town were afraid of the 'freaks'? Have you ever felt misunderstood like them?
What did you learn about teamwork and friendship from the story?
If you had a special ability like the characters in the book, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in the characters' situations.
Highlight the importance of diversity by discussing how each character’s unique abilities contribute to the group's success.
Promote critical thinking by asking what your child would do differently if they were in a similar situation as the characters.
Reinforce the value of teamwork by pointing out moments in the story where working together helped the characters solve problems.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Freaks,' the diverse group of characters each have unique abilities that initially set them apart. Through their adventures, they learn to appreciate and understand each other’s differences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to embrace diversity among their peers, understanding that everyone has something unique to offer.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The characters in the book frequently face challenges that they can only overcome by working together, showcasing the power of teamwork and mutual support.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to engage in collaborative activities and understand the importance of working together towards common goals in school projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: Throughout 'Freaks,' the characters encounter various obstacles and adversaries. Their courage to confront these challenges head-on teaches resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own fears and challenges bravely, whether it's trying out new activities, standing up for themselves, or coping with change.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The tight-knit bonds between the characters in 'Freaks' are central to the story. Their friendships provide strength and comfort in times of difficulty.
Real-World Application: This lesson highlights the value of building and maintaining strong friendships, which can provide emotional support and joy throughout life.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Self
Explanation: Each character in 'Freaks' learns to accept and take pride in their unique qualities, transforming perceived flaws into strengths.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to celebrate their own differences and recognize that their unique traits make them special, boosting self-esteem and self-acceptance.