I'll Tell You No Lies
#2 in Traitor Series
on Goodreads (375)
What’s inside...
I'll Tell You No Lies by Amanda McCrina is a riveting YA novel set in Cold War era America. Following eighteen-year-old Shelby Blaine, the story unfolds in 1955 New York, where she and her father, an Air Force intelligence officer, relocate following a tragic car accident. When Shelby meets Maksym, an escaped Soviet pilot, she becomes entangled in a dangerous web of lies and espionage. As she uncovers more about Maksym's past and his detainment in Auschwitz, she decides to help him, questioning the truths told by those around her, including Maksym. With allies turning into enemies, Shelby must navigate through deception to decide if she can trust the supposed traitor with her life, risking it all in the process.
Discussion points
How did the characters' actions make you feel and why?
What would you do if you were in the same situation as the main character?
Can you think of a time when you had to decide whether to tell the truth or not? What did you choose and why?
What do you think is the importance of honesty after reading this story?
How do you think the story would change if it ended differently?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a calm and open tone when discussing the questions, showing that all answers are valuable and considered.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life situations your child might encounter to make the conversation relevant.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, reinforcing that their perspective is important.
Praise your child for their insights, fostering a positive relationship with reading and critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Honesty
Explanation: The main character faces various scenarios where they must choose between telling the truth and telling lies. The consequences of their choices are clearly depicted.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the value of honesty in building trust with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters are presented with challenges that they need to face bravely, whether it's admitting a mistake or standing up for what's right.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to face their fears and speak up in situations where they feel something isn't right, bolstering their moral courage in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The protagonist learns the importance of accepting responsibility for their actions, seeing firsthand how their decisions affect others.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think about the consequences of their actions and to accept responsibility in both small and large matters.