I Had Seen Castles
on Goodreads (1,008)
What’s inside...
John Dante is seventeen when the Japanese bomb Pearl Harbor, and he wants to fight for his country. But then he falls head over heels for Ginny Burton, who is against all war, and his beliefs are suddenly questioned. Rather than be judged a traitor or a coward, though, John enlists—a decision that changes his life forever. Includes a reader's guide and an interview with the author.
Age
11-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
John Dante
Ginny Burton
Discussion points
How do you think the main character's feelings about war changed throughout the story?
What impact do you think relationships had on the characters' decisions in the book?
Can you think of a moment in the story where a character showed courage? What made it courageous?
How do the historical elements in the book help you understand the characters better?
Do you think the story would be different if it was set in today’s world? Why or why not?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting, give a brief overview of the historical context to help your child understand the setting.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book’s events. This helps in understanding their perception and moral reasoning.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to dive deeper into their thoughts and opinions.
Link discussions to personal experiences or current events to make the conversation more relatable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The impact of war on individuals and families
Explanation: The protagonist experiences firsthand the physical and emotional destruction caused by war, affecting not just soldiers but also their loved ones.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate the sacrifices made during conflicts and the importance of peace. It emphasizes empathy and understanding towards people who have experienced war.
Example Lesson: The importance of personal growth and self-reflection
Explanation: The protagonist goes through significant personal development from naivety to a deeper understanding of the world around him due to his wartime experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of reflecting on their experiences and growing from them. It encourages them to continually seek personal improvement and be open to changing their perspectives.
Example Lesson: The power of love and human connection
Explanation: Despite the harsh realities of war, the relationships between characters provide strength and comfort, showcasing the enduring power of human connections.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value and nurture relationships in their lives, understanding that love and friendship can provide support during challenging times.