Saving Sky
on Goodreads (433)
What’s inside...
Although the country is at war, terrorists strike at random, and widespread rationing is in effect, thirteen-year-old Sky Brightman is remarkably untouched by it all. She and her family live off the grid on sixty acres of rural New Mexico ranch land with chores to do, horses to ride, and no television or internet to bring disturbing news into their home. But when a string of mysterious arrests begins and Sky's new friend, Kareem, becomes a target, she is finally forced to confront the world in all its complexity. With courage, ingenuity, and fierce determination, Sky meets injustice head-on and shows the tremendous impact one person can have on her community.
Age
8-12
Length
208 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Sky Brightman
Sky'S Mother
Kareem
Sky'S Father
Discussion points
What do you think made Sky brave enough to stand up for what she believes in? Can you think of a time when you were brave?
How do the characters in 'Saving Sky' help each other during challenging times? Why is teamwork important?
What changes would you make in the story if you were one of the characters? Why?
How does the setting of the story affect Sky and her actions? Can you imagine this story in a different setting?
What emotions did you feel while reading this book? Which parts made you feel that way?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book's themes and setting, encouraging an open and interactive dialogue. Use quetions that connect the story to your child's personal experiences or emotions, enhancing their empathy and understanding. Praise their insights and opinions, reinforcing their confidence in expressing themselves. Discuss the importance of values such as courage and teamwork, as depicted in the book, relating them to real-life scenarios your child might face.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Saving Sky', the protagonist, Sky, displays bravery as she navigates the challenges posed by a national crisis, shielding her friend from harm.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing difficult situations with bravery, teaching them to stand up for themselves and others in challenging times.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Sky's relationship with her friend highlights the significance of trust and loyalty. Despite external pressures and fears, Sky remains a steadfast friend.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to cultivate deep, trusting relationships and to be reliable friends in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of critical thinking
Explanation: Sky often questions the surrounding world's status quo and seeks truth amidst chaos, which exemplifies critical thinking.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to question and analyze the information they encounter daily, helping them make informed decisions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through her interactions with diverse characters facing various hardships, Sky learns to empathize and understand different perspectives.
Real-World Application: This narrative encourages children to be empathetic towards others' feelings and situations, fostering a more inclusive attitude.
Example Lesson: Resilience and adaptability
Explanation: Sky's ability to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances and maintain her resolve is a central theme throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of being resilient and adaptable in the face of life's changes and challenges.