Kindred Spirits
What’s inside...
Kindred Spirits follows Miranda, a young woman who discovers she can see ghosts after moving into a new apartment. Miranda befriends her new ghostly neighbors, who help guide her through adventures in both the human and spirit worlds. As Miranda gets to know the ghosts, she unravels the stories of their past lives and deaths, eventually discovering connections between their history and her own family ancestry. The book blends elements of fantasy, mystery and family drama. Jasmine Starr, a successful model and business owner, encounters unexpected supernatural events and an FBI investigation into a murder, leading her on a thrilling journey from Chicago to Venice, Italy and the Swiss Alps. Along the way, she uncovers truth, treachery, deception, and evil, but also finds love.
Age
9-12
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the main characters learned about friendship in the story?
How would you feel if you were in the same situation as the characters?
What would you do differently than the characters did?
Can you think of a time when you helped a friend like the characters did?
Why is it important to have friends who understand and support you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s themes, creating an open and inviting atmosphere for your child to express their feelings. Ask your child to relate the characters' experiences to their own life, which can deepen their understanding and empathy. Use the questions to guide a reflective dialogue, encouraging your child to think critically about the role of friendship and support in their own lives. Lastly, acknowledge all of your child's responses positively to build their confidence in expressing their thoughts and opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Kindred Spirits,' characters learn to understand and feel the emotions of others, fostering a sense of empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to better understand their friends' feelings and viewpoints, improving their social interactions and relationships.
Example Lesson: The Value of Friendship
Explanation: The story celebrates friendships that cross cultural and societal boundaries, illustrating how diverse relationships enrich lives.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to embrace differences and build friendships with peers from various backgrounds, enhancing their cultural awareness and inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Cooperation and Teamwork
Explanation: Characters in the book must work together to overcome challenges, highlighting the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of collaborating with others in school projects or during play to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Courage in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: The protagonists encounter obstacles that they overcome with bravery, teaching readers about resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by facing their own challenges, whether in academics, sports, or personal endeavors, with determination and courage.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Linda Fix emphasizes the beauty and importance of the natural world through her storytelling.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to engage in environmental conservation activities, like recycling or planting trees, and to respect and protect their natural surroundings.