Nothing Interesting Ever Happens to Ethan Fairmont
#1 of 3 in Ethan Fairmont Series
on Goodreads (70)
What’s inside...
In Ferrous City, Ethan Fairmont, a self-proclaimed genius inventor, discovers an extraterrestrial named Cheese while hiding from a bully in an abandoned car factory. Joined by his ex-best friend Kareem and the new kid Juan Carlos, they embark on a mission to fix Cheese and keep his presence a secret. Their task becomes more challenging when mysterious agents arrive in search of Cheese, putting their loved ones at risk. As they navigate issues of racial profiling and community struggles, they must carry out an intergalactic rescue to protect their secret. This middle-grade novel series by Nick Brooks, has elements of E.T. and Stranger Things, and blends science fiction with real-life issues appealing to both young readers and adults.
Character compass
Ethan Fairmont
Juan
Cheese
Kacey
Discussion points
How do you think Ethan felt when he believed nothing interesting happened to him? Have you ever felt the same way?
What was the turning point for Ethan in the story? What changed his perspective?
Can you think of small 'uninteresting' things in our daily life that might be special after all?
How did Ethan's friends and family play a role in his adventures? Who in your life helps make your days interesting?
If you were to write the next chapter of Ethan's story, what interesting thing would you have happen to him?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own story of a day you thought was going to be boring but turned out to be fun or surprising. Encourage your child to think of everyday objects or routines and imagine a fun story around them. Validate their feelings if they express that their days feel mundane and discuss ways they can seek out or notice the small adventures in life. Enable connections between the story and your child's life by drawing parallels, which enhances empathy and understanding. Finally, keep the conversation light and enjoyable to foster a love for storytelling and reading.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Ethan learns to understand and share the feelings of a new student in his school who is from a different country.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by showing kindness and trying to understand their peers who might seem different from them.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Ethan faces various challenges but learns to keep trying and not give up.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to persist through their own difficulties, whether in schoolwork, sports, or friendships.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: Ethan uses his imagination to solve problems and create games that include everyone.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to use their creativity to think of innovative solutions and inclusive activities.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Ethan is tasked with taking care of the class pet, learning the importance of being responsible.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of taking responsibility for their chores or tasks at home or school.