Free to Fall
on Goodreads (7,019)
What’s inside...
In a future where a corporation called Gnosis has replaced Apple and Google, their app, Lux, optimizes decision making for the best personal results. Sixteen-year-old Rory Vaughn, who follows Lux's recommendations, gets accepted to the elite Theden Academy. However, upon arriving, she feels something is amiss. Rory meets North, a townie who doesn't use Lux, and starts to question the app's guidance. As she listens to her inner voice instead of Lux, Rory discovers a shocking truth about the world.
Age
12-13
Length
469 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Aurora "Rory" Vaughn
Beck
North
Professor Tarsus
Discussion points
How do you think technology influenced the choices that the characters made in the story?
What would you do if you were in the protagonist's place, having to choose between what's easy and what's right?
How does the concept of 'perfect knowledge' change the way we think about privacy and freedom?
Who was your favorite character, and what qualities did you admire about them?
If you had access to Lux, how would you use it in your daily life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the themes of the book to their own experiences with technology and decision-making. Ask them how they feel about trusting technology in their daily lives. Validate their feelings and thoughts, and share your own perspective to enrich the conversation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of making independent choices
Explanation: The protagonist of 'Free to Fall' learns to trust her own instincts and make decisions that defy societal expectations and technological dictates.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value their own judgment and make choices based on their personal convictions, rather than just following peers or trends.
Example Lesson: The value of privacy and questioning surveillance
Explanation: As the story unfolds, the main character confronts the consequences of living in a highly surveilled society and challenges the invasive use of technology.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be mindful of their digital footprint and promotes a healthy skepticism about privacy and personal data usage.
Example Lesson: The strength found in vulnerability
Explanation: Throughout 'Free to Fall', the protagonist discovers that embracing vulnerability can lead to strength and authentic relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that it's okay to express their emotions and that doing so can deepen connections with others and foster personal growth.
Example Lesson: The critical nature of ethical decision-making
Explanation: The novel highlights how the main character's ethical choices impact her and those around her, emphasizing the ripple effect of our actions.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to consider the broader implications of their actions and to strive to make ethical decisions.