Freddie vs. the Family Curse
on Goodreads (459)
What’s inside...
In this thrilling and hilarious middle grade adventure, a young Filipino-American boy must team up with his ancestor to break the curse that’s haunted their family for generations, or be trapped in an amulet forever. WINNER OF THE 2023 SID FLEISCHMAN AWARD.
Age
8-12
Length
256 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Freddie Ruiz
Great-Uncle Ramon
Discussion points
What do you think Freddie felt when confronted with the family curse?
How do you think the curse affected Freddie's relationships with his friends and family?
If you were Freddie, what would you have done differently to handle the situation?
What did you learn about the importance of family and teamwork from this story?
What parts of the story made you feel the most excited or nervous?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to share their thoughts and feelings about the book, showing genuine interest in their opinions.
Relate the challenges faced by Freddie to real-life situations your child might encounter, fostering a deeper connection with the book’s themes.
Use expressive reading techniques to bring the story’s characters and conflicts to life during read-alongs.
Discuss the moral or lesson of the book and ask your child how they can apply it in their own life.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to draw or write about their favorite scene, deepening their engagement with the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming fears
Explanation: The protagonist faces his fears head-on, showing resilience and courage.
Real-World Application: Children learn to tackle difficult situations or challenges in their own lives with bravery.
Example Lesson: Importance of family support
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, the protagonist receives unwavering support from his family, highlighting the strength of familial bonds.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate and rely on their family members during tough times.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, the main character persists and eventually overcomes his family curse, demonstrating determination.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of not giving up easily and striving to achieve their goals.