Kiss & Tell
on Goodreads (5,335)
What’s inside...
Kiss & Tell is a thrilling YA novel that follows Hunter, a boy band star navigating the complexities of fame, heartbreak, and identity as the only gay member in the band. After a painful breakup, Hunter grapples with the expectations of being a queer role model while exploring new relationships and finding community. His journey is complicated when his new relationship with a fellow band member is discovered, challenging the public persona he's forced to maintain and threatening his own sense of self.
Discussion points
What did you think about how the characters shared their feelings? Can you share a time you felt the same way?
Why do you think it's important to be honest with our friends, like the characters in the book?
How do you think the story would change if the characters made different choices?
What is one thing you learned from this story that you would like to apply in your own life?
How can we show kindness to others, as seen in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think the book might be about, based on the title and cover. This sets a purpose for reading.
Pause at pivotal moments in the story to ask your child to predict what might happen next. This helps develop critical thinking skills.
Relate the situations in the book to real life. Ask your child if they have experienced anything similar and how they felt about it.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture or write a short story about their favorite part. This aids in comprehension and creativity.
Discuss the characters’ actions and consequences to help your child understand the moral of the story and develop empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In the story, characters face consequences when they withhold the truth, emphasizing how honesty builds trust.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value transparency in their interactions, fostering trust and open communication with peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: Characters in the book demonstrate acts of kindness and support towards each other, highlighting the significance of having good friends.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to cultivate and maintain strong friendships, understanding the support system it provides.
Example Lesson: Handling rejection gracefully
Explanation: The book portrays characters who cope positively with rejection, teaching resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by managing their emotions and reactions in times of disappointment, using it as a learning experience.
Example Lesson: Respecting differences
Explanation: Through its diverse characters, the book showcases the beauty and strength in individual differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to embrace and celebrate diversity among their peers, promoting inclusion.