Miles Morales Suspended: A Spider-Man Novel
#2 of 2 in Miles Morales Graphic Novels Series
What’s inside...
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jason Reynolds comes the high-flying sequel to his groundbreaking young adult novel Miles Spider-Man about the adventures of the unassuming, everyday kid who just so happens to be Spider-Man. Miles Morales is still just your average teenager. He has unexpectedly become totally obsessed with poetry and can never seem to do much more than babble around his crush. Nothing too weird. Oh! Except, just yesterday, he used his spidey superpowers to save the world (no biggie) from an evil mastermind called The Warden. And the grand prize Miles gets for that is… Suspension. But what begins as a long boring day of in-school suspension is interrupted by a little bzzz in his mind. His spidey-sense is telling him there’s something not quite right here, and soon he finds himself in a fierce battle with an insidious…termite?! His unexpected foe is hiding a secret, one that could lead to the destruction of the world’s history—especially Black and Brown history—and only Miles can stop him. Yeah, just a typical day in the life of your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man.
Character compass
Miles Morales
Discussion points
How did Miles Morales' experience at school make you feel? Can you relate to any of his challenges?
Miles faces a lot of pressure and expectations. How does he handle them, and what can we learn from his responses?
What role do friendship and trust play in this story? How do Miles' friends influence his journey?
How does Miles' identity as Spider-Man affect his actions and decisions in his everyday life?
What does this story teach us about standing up for what is right, even when it's difficult?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the challenges Miles faces, and relate them to their own experiences.
Discuss the importance of resilience and ask your child how they might handle similar pressures.
Highlight the significance of having supportive friends and ask your child about their relationships with their own friends.
Foster a discussion about the dual identity of Miles—both as a normal schoolboy and as Spider-Man—and how they balance their own responsibilities and hobbies.
Use examples from the book to talk about integrity and the courage it takes to stand up for one's beliefs.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Integrity in the face of adversity
Explanation: Miles Morales, as Spider-Man, consistently demonstrates integrity by choosing to do the right thing, even when it’s difficult or when he faces personal challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of sticking to their values and doing what is right, even under pressure or when facing challenges at school or in social situations.
Example Lesson: The importance of responsibility
Explanation: The novel emphasizes the iconic Spider-Man motto, 'With great power comes great responsibility.' Miles grapples with his dual identity and the responsibilities it entails.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that their actions have consequences, and they must consider the effects of their actions on others and themselves, helping them understand accountability.
Example Lesson: Embracing one’s identity
Explanation: Throughout the novel, Miles Morales struggles with his identity both as a teenager and as a superhero. His journey towards self-acceptance is a key theme.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their unique traits and backgrounds, understanding that their individuality is a strength and not something to shy away from.
Example Lesson: The power of perseverance
Explanation: Miles faces numerous obstacles both as a student and as Spider-Man, yet he perseveres through challenges without giving up.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persist through difficulties in their own lives, whether it's completing a tough assignment or resolving personal conflicts.
Example Lesson: Impact of choices on life
Explanation: Miles Morales is often presented with choices that could affect his and others’ lives significantly. His decision-making process highlights the consequences of various actions.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that their choices can lead to different outcomes, teaching them to think critically about the potential impacts of their decisions.