Mere Mortals
What’s inside...
This hilarious, fresh take on a classic vampire tale follows a pair of hundred-year-old teenage vampires, Charlie and her brother Reg, who are turned mortal and must face the challenges of high school in Nowhere, Iowa. Initially members of a wealthy vampire clan, a mistake leads to their expulsion and loss of immortality. While struggling with typical teenage issues, they make new friends, including Dexter. As Charlie appreciates her new experiences, the possibility of regaining immortality arises, forcing her to choose between her new friends and eternal life. Don’t miss this unique, laugh-out-loud funny novel by acclaimed author Erin Jade Lange!
Age
13-17
Length
368 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the main characters learned about friendship throughout their journey?
How do you believe overcoming challenges can change a person, as shown in the book?
Why is it important to stand up for what you believe in, as seen with the characters?
What would you have done differently if you were one of the characters?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in our hometown?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own reflections on the book to model thoughtful engagement. Ask open-ended questions that guide your child to consider the characters' motivations and choices. Validate their responses and encourage them to think deeply by asking follow-up questions. Relate the story's themes to personal experiences or current events to make the discussion more relevant. Lastly, keep the conversation light and enjoyable to foster a love for reading and discussing literature together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Mere Mortals,' the characters often face challenges that teach them to understand and share the feelings of others. This is demonstrated through their interactions and evolving relationships throughout the story.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize emotions in others and respond with kindness and support in their day-to-day interactions with peers and family.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The story highlights how true friends support each other in times of need. The characters come together to face difficulties, showing the strength of their bond.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of building strong, supportive friendships and being a good friend in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book often overcome obstacles and personal challenges, demonstrating resilience. This theme is woven throughout the narrative, showing how the characters grow stronger through their experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply resilience by bouncing back from their own setbacks and using these experiences as opportunities for personal growth.
Example Lesson: Personal Responsibility
Explanation: The book showcases the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions as the characters face the consequences of their decisions.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of thinking before acting and taking responsibility for the outcomes of their actions.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face the Unknown
Explanation: As the characters in 'Mere Mortals' embark on new adventures and confront unknown challenges, they demonstrate courage.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to embrace new experiences and face challenges with bravery, just like the characters in the story.