Pretty Monsters
on Goodreads (6,143)
What’s inside...
Kelly Link has made her mark in adult literary publishing and is now making her debut in young adult fiction with her first collection of YA stories published by Viking. Link's stories feature a unique blend of the fantastical and the mundane, where nothing is as it seems and everything deserves a closer look. From the award-winning 'The Faery Handbag' featuring a grandmother with a mysterious handbag, to 'The Surfer' set in a near future with alien arrivals, Link's tales are filled with humor, unexpected insights, and unconventional perspectives. Celebrated by notable figures like Michael Chabon and Holly Black, this collection promises to captivate and transform the way teens view the world.
Age
12-15
Length
389 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the monsters in the stories represent?
How did the characters respond to challenges and what can we learn from them?
Can you imagine a different ending for any of the stories? What would it be?
Which story was your favorite and why?
How do the settings in each story contribute to the mood?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the stories, relating them to their own experiences.
Discuss the moral lessons or messages that each story might be conveying.
Use creative questions to make your child think beyond the text, such as imagining alternative scenarios or endings.
Highlight elements of the book like the settings, characters, and plot twists to deepen comprehension and appreciation.
Draw parallels between the challenges faced by characters and real-life situations to enhance empathy and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity
Explanation: In 'Pretty Monsters,' characters from diverse backgrounds and experiences come together, showcasing the beauty of acceptance and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and embrace differences among their peers, fostering an inclusive environment at school and in their communities.
Example Lesson: The importance of courage
Explanation: Characters in the stories often face unusual and frightening situations. Their bravery in confronting these challenges is a recurring theme.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to face their own fears, whether it's trying out for a sports team, standing up to a bully, or performing in a school play.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: The stories cleverly depict how characters' decisions impact their lives and the lives of others, reinforcing the idea that actions have consequences.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of thinking before acting and being mindful of how their actions affect others.
Example Lesson: Value of curiosity
Explanation: The protagonists' curiosity often leads them to uncover deeper truths and learn important life lessons, portraying curiosity as a valuable trait.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek knowledge in their everyday life, promoting lifelong learning and critical thinking.
Example Lesson: Strength in vulnerability
Explanation: Many characters show that being open about fears and weaknesses can actually lead to personal growth and strength.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that it’s okay to express their emotions and seek help, which is crucial for emotional development and forming healthy relationships.