Payback
#3 of 3 in Masterminds Series
on Goodreads (4,582)
What’s inside...
The thrilling finale to the New York Times-bestselling Masterminds series from middle grade star author Gordon Korman. Perfect for fans of Rick Riordan and James Patterson. After a serious betrayal from one of their former friends, the clones of Project Osiris are on the run again. Now separated into pairs, Eli and Tori and Amber and Malik are fighting to survive in the real world. Amber and Malik track down the one person they think can help them prove the existence of Project Osiris, notorious mob boss Gus Alabaster, also known as Malik's DNA donor. But as Malik gets pulled into the criminal world tantalized by hints of a real family, his actions put him and Amber into greater danger. Eli and Tori get sucked into even bigger conspiracies as they hunt down Project Osiris's most closely guarded secrets—who does Eli's DNA come from? With a surprising new ally and another cross-country adventure, the four will have to work together to overcome the worst parts of themselves if they are going to end Project Osiris once and for all.
Character compass
Eli Frieden
Hector Amani
Malik Bruder
Amber Laska
Tori Pritel
Dr. Felix Hammerstrom
Discussion points
What did you think about the teamwork shown by the characters in 'Payback'? How can you apply this in your own life?
Which character did you relate to the most, and why?
Do you think the characters handled the situation well? What would you have done differently?
The book explores themes of justice and fairness. What does justice mean to you?
How did the characters' relationships evolve throughout the story? What did they learn about each other?
Tip: Role play these questions
Ask open-ended questions that encourage your child to think critically about the story and its themes.
Share your own thoughts and feelings about the book’s events and characters to create a two-way conversation.
Relate the book's situations to real-life scenarios that your child may face, making the discussion more relevant and engaging.
Encourage your child to draw or write about their favorite scene or character. This can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the story.
Discuss the outcomes of the book. Ask your child if they think the ending was fair and what they might have written differently.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Payback,' the characters work together to solve problems, showcasing how collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning the value of cooperating to achieve a common goal.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The protagonist faces various obstacles but does not give up, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that persistence is key when faced with difficulties, whether in academics, sports, or personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: The book highlights the repercussions of the characters' actions, stressing the importance of thinking things through.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to consider the potential outcomes of their actions, helping them make more thoughtful decisions in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Characters in the story learn to understand different perspectives, which aids in resolving conflicts.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to consider others' feelings and viewpoints, fostering a more empathetic approach to interactions with peers.