#1 in The Warriors series
Outcast
on Goodreads (3,301)
What’s inside...
I live by one simple rule: no magic. Not too hard in the human world, plus it keeps me hidden from my evil sorcerer father. Safe. When I'm forced into using magic to save an innocent family, the jig is up. Or so I believe. Instead, I'm whisked off to an academy of magic in a place I never knew existed. The problem is - my power is completely raw, which means I don't know my butt from a broomstick. At first, it's all wands, witches, and a new wardrobe...until I get caught in a restricted area with a dead body. Now, it's going to take more than magic to clear my name. Thanks to new friends and a magically delicious vampire called Gray, I don't have to fly solo anymore. I'm out of my depth and out of options. Can I catch a killer before it's too late, or am I doomed to live a life on the run? Outcast: Spellslingers Academy of Magic, the first audiobook of the Warden of the West series, is a fantasy mystery with humor, action, a powerful heroine, and a fang-tastic hero.
Character compass
Discussion points
What do you think made the main character feel like an outcast? How did they cope with those feelings?
Can you think of a time when you felt different from everyone else? How did you handle it?
What does friendship mean in this story? How do the friendships impact the characters?
How did the main character change from the beginning to the end of the book?
What is one thing you would do to help someone who feels like an outcast?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the book's themes without judgment. Listen actively and validate their emotions. Use examples from the book to relate to real-life scenarios your child might encounter. Ask them to consider different perspectives from the story and how they might apply empathy in similar situations. Wrap up your discussion by asking your child to think about ways they can include or support peers who might feel like outcasts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: In 'Outcast,' the protagonist goes through experiences that teach them the importance of understanding and compassion towards others, regardless of their backgrounds or differences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these concepts by showing kindness to classmates who might seem different or who are facing challenges, fostering an inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: The main character faces various struggles and learns to overcome them with courage and determination, emphasizing resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to persist in the face of difficulties, whether it be in their academics, sports, or personal life, reinforcing the value of perseverance.
Example Lesson: The Power of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, friendships play a crucial role in supporting the protagonist during their times as an outcast, highlighting the impact of positive relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of building and maintaining friendships. It teaches them to be supportive friends and seek out positive social interactions.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Self
Explanation: The protagonist learns to accept and embrace their unique qualities, which initially led to them feeling like an outcast.
Real-World Application: This promotes self-esteem in children, encouraging them to appreciate their individuality and differences as strengths rather than shortcomings.