The Missing Series
Risked
on Goodreads (4,501)
What’s inside...
Jonah, thirteen, and Katherine, eleven, travel through time to 1918 Russia just as Alexei, Anastasia, and the rest of Tsar Nicholas II's family is about to be executed. Author's note includes facts about the Romanov's and the mystery surrounding. their deaths.
Series reading
Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think about the choices the characters had to make? What would you do in their situation?
How did the characters' actions affect the outcome of the story? Can you think of any alternatives they could have chosen?
Why do you think the author chose to include time travel in the story?
How do the themes of courage and sacrifice come into play in 'Risked'?
What did you learn about history from this book? How does it change the way you see the world today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book’s characters and events. Ask open-ended questions to facilitate deeper understanding. Draw parallels between the historical events in the book and current times to make the discussion more relatable. Share your own insights and perspectives to enrich the dialogue and connect on shared themes. Highlight the moral and ethical questions raised in the book to promote critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and bravery
Explanation: In 'Risked', the protagonist demonstrates courage by facing dangerous situations to make a positive change.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stand up for themselves and others, and understand that their actions, no matter how small, can make a difference.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book often work together to solve problems, showing that collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to cooperate with others in group tasks at school or in sports, enhancing their interpersonal skills.
Example Lesson: Understanding the impact of historical events
Explanation: The story integrates real historical figures and events, which helps children grasp the importance of history.
Real-World Application: Kids are motivated to learn and ask questions about history and its significance, connecting past events with present circumstances.
Example Lesson: Making ethical decisions
Explanation: Characters in 'Risked' face ethical dilemmas that challenge their morals, emphasizing the complexity of right and wrong.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of considering all aspects of a situation to make thoughtful, ethical choices.