Rebel Genius: Rebel Geniuses
#1 of 2 in Rebel Geniuses Series
on Goodreads (941)
What’s inside...
In twelve-year-old Giacomo's Renaissance-inspired world, art is powerful, dangerous, and outlawed. Every artist possesses a Genius, a birdlike creature that is the living embodiment of an artist's creative spirit. Those caught with one face a punishment akin to death, so when Giacomo discovers he has a Genius, he knows he's in serious trouble.
Luckily, he finds safety in a secret studio where young artists and their Geniuses train in sacred geometry to channel their creative energies as weapons. But when a murderous artist goes after the three Sacred Tools--objects that would allow him to destroy the world and everyone in his path--Giacomo and his friends must risk their lives to stop him.
Why read this book
- Stimulates creativity through fantasy and adventure.
- Enhances problem-solving and strategic thinking skills.
- Characters embody resilience and inventiveness.
- Encourages exploration of art and history.
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make a true genius? How do these compare to the characters in the book?
How does the concept of creative power resonate with you? What creative powers do you feel you have?
Can you identify any characters who faced big challenges? How did they overcome them?
What are the consequences of using one's abilities for good or bad in the story? Can you think of any real-life examples?
What role does friendship play in the characters’ adventures? How do your friendships influence your decisions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before discussing, ask your child to choose their favorite character and explain why they made that choice, to personalize the conversation.
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with those of the characters, fostering empathy and deeper understanding.
Discuss the moral dilemmas in the story to help your child develop critical thinking about right and wrong.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of teamwork and cooperation in achieving goals, relating it to real-life scenarios your child may face.
After reading the book, encourage your child to create a drawing or write a short story about their own 'rebel genius', using the story's themes as inspiration.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of creativity and innovation
Explanation: In 'Rebel Genius', characters use their unique creative powers to solve problems and overcome obstacles, highlighting the power of creativity.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to utilize their imagination and think outside the box when facing challenges, promoting innovative problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The protagonist and his allies must work together, combining their strengths to succeed. This illustrates that collaboration is often essential to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of working alongside others, whether in school projects or in play, fostering a sense of community and cooperation.
Example Lesson: The significance of perseverance and resilience
Explanation: Characters in the book face various adversities but continue to strive towards their goal, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to persist through difficulties and not to give up easily, equipping them with the tenacity needed for personal and academic success.
Example Lesson: Understanding ethical dilemmas and moral choices
Explanation: As the characters encounter complex situations, they must make decisions that test their morals, teaching readers about ethics and integrity.
Real-World Application: This prepares children to face real-life decisions and to think critically about right and wrong, fostering moral development.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity and individual differences
Explanation: The book showcases a range of characters with diverse backgrounds and abilities, emphasizing acceptance and equality.
Real-World Application: Promotes understanding and appreciation for diversity among peers, preparing children for a globalized world.