Last Canto of the Dead: Outlaw Saints
#2 in Outlaw Saints Series
on Goodreads (277)
What’s inside...
Two gods-turned-teenagers, Mateo Matisse and Chela Hidalgo, not only navigate the challenges of adolescence and love but also face the immense responsibilities of their divine powers. After saving their Brooklyn diaspora community and resurrecting their native island, San Madrigal, they discover new adversities. Armies clash on San Madrigal while discord splits their Brooklyn community. Worse, a devastating prophecy separates them, stranding Mateo in a policed city and Chela amid island chaos. As gods, their powers are limitless, but as separated teenagers facing grief and desperation, their fates—and those of their people—hang in the balance. This gripping conclusion to the saga that began with BALLAD & DAGGER captures their continued fight and the evolution of their love, endorsed by renowned author Rick Riordan.
Character compass
Mateo Matisse
Chela Hidalgo
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the characters to become 'Outlaw Saints'?
How do the characters show courage or bravery throughout their journey?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
What important lessons do you think the characters learned by the end of the story?
If you could change one event in the book, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child which character they liked best and why, to get them thinking about the characters’ personalities and actions.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite part of the book, and ask follow-up questions to delve deeper into their perspective.
Discuss the moral dilemmas presented in the book and ask your child how they would react in similar situations.
Relate the story to real-life events or personal experiences to help your child connect with the themes on a personal level.
Praise your child’s responses and insights to boost their confidence in expressing their thoughts and opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters in 'Last Canto of the Dead: Outlaw Saints' often face tough challenges but demonstrate perseverance and courage to overcome them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own difficulties, whether in school or personal life, with determination and resilience.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: The characters exemplify how working together and supporting friends can lead to overcoming great obstacles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of collaborating and supporting others in group projects or during sports at school.
Example Lesson: The power of redemption and forgiveness
Explanation: In the story, characters who make mistakes are given chances to redeem themselves, highlighting the themes of forgiveness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to forgive others and understand the importance of second chances in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Standing up for what is right
Explanation: Several characters in the book take brave actions to stand up against wrong, demonstrating integrity.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to uphold fairness and justice in their everyday decisions, such as intervening in bullying scenarios or being honest in their academic endeavors.