Invisible Son
on Goodreads (1,369)
What’s inside...
From the award-winning and critically acclaimed author of This Is My America, Kim Johnson presents another social justice thriller about a wrongly accused teen, Andre Jackson, who is desperate to reclaim both his innocence and his first love. Andre's life changes instantly when he is wrongfully accused of a crime, a virus shuts everything down, and the girl he loves moves on. Returning from juvie to a gentrifying Portland neighborhood amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Andre struggles with reclaiming his identity and friendships. His only hope lies in his relationship with the Whitaker kids, especially his longtime crush, Sierra. When Sierra's brother Eric goes missing and their adoptive parents pretend everything is perfect, Andre sees a chance to uncover the truth about his own arrest. Kim Johnson's thriller shines a light on the challenges of being young and Black in America, exploring themes of power, visibility, and justice.
Age
14-17
Length
416 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the character's feelings about being invisible change throughout the story?
What would you do if you were invisible for a day? How would you help others?
Why do you think it's important for everyone to feel seen and heard?
How can we help people who feel like they are invisible to others?
What are some qualities in your friends that make them special and not 'invisible'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a gentle tone to encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book.
Relate the story to your child’s everyday experiences at school or in the community to make the discussion more relatable.
Highlight the moments in the book where characters help each other, and discuss the importance of empathy and friendship.
Ask your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene, and use it as a prompt to discuss the book's themes.
Praise your child for their insights and make connections to the values you share as a family.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Invisible Son,' the protagonist navigates challenges that teach him to understand and empathize with others who are different from him.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate diverse perspectives and develop deeper relationships by understanding others' feelings and viewpoints.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: The story demonstrates how the main character overcomes obstacles with perseverance and courage, highlighting the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by tackling their own challenges with determination, whether in academics, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Community Support
Explanation: Throughout the book, the support from family and community plays a vital role in the protagonist's journey, underlining their importance.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to seek support from and contribute to their own communities and families when facing difficulties.
Example Lesson: Justice and Fairness
Explanation: The story tackles themes of justice, teaching readers about the importance of fairness and standing up for what is right.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to advocate for fairness in their interactions and stand against injustices, big or small, in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Self-Identity and Confidence
Explanation: The protagonist's journey towards self-discovery encourages readers to be confident in their identity.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children embrace their unique qualities and be proud of who they are, boosting their self-esteem and personal growth.