Doppol - Smart Book Recommendations

4.19
on Goodreads (135,006)

What’s inside...

Sometimes discovering the truth can leave you more hopeless than believing the lies… That’s what seventeen-year-old Sky realizes after she meets Dean Holder. A guy with a reputation that rivals her own and an uncanny ability to invoke feelings in her she’s never had before. He terrifies her and captivates her all in the span of just one encounter, and something about the way he makes her feel sparks buried memories from a past that she wishes could just stay buried. Sky struggles to keep him at a distance knowing he’s nothing but trouble, but Holder insists on learning everything about her. After finally caving to his unwavering pursuit, Sky soon finds that Holder isn’t at all who he’s been claiming to be. When the secrets he’s been keeping are finally revealed, every single facet of Sky’s life will change forever.
Age
8-11
Length
224 pages
Text complexity

Character compass

Discussion points

What emotions did you feel while reading about the character’s journey?
How do you think the character changed from the beginning to the end of the story?
What was the most challenging moment for the character, and how did they handle it?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to the character? What did you do?
What does the word 'hopeless' mean to you, and how does it apply to the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story, relating it to their own experiences. Prompt them to think critically about the character's decisions and growth throughout the book. Discuss the title's meaning both in the context of the book and in real-world scenarios, enhancing their understanding and empathy.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The protagonist faces numerous challenges but learns to overcome them through perseverance and courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own obstacles with determination and not give up easily, whether it be in school or in personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Characters in the book show understanding and support for each other's feelings, helping to solve conflicts.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to understand and share the feelings of others, improving their interactions and friendships.
Example Lesson: Importance of Hope
Explanation: Throughout the book, the theme of hope is prevalent, even in daunting situations, providing a positive outlook for characters.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to remain hopeful and optimistic in their own lives, regardless of the circumstances.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The characters often unite their abilities to address bigger challenges, highlighting the value of working together.
Real-World Application: This can be mirrored in a child’s daily activities like group projects or family tasks, promoting cooperative behavior and shared goals.

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