Sniper Shield (Shadow Squadron: Shadow Squadron)
#4 in Shadow Squadron Series
on Goodreads (66)
What’s inside...
Lieutenant Kimiyo Yamashita, a member of the Shadow Squadron known for his iron will and nerves of steel, faces a moral dilemma when tasked with protecting an Iraqi terrorist-turned-politician. Despite his reluctance, Yamashita promises to keep the controversial V.I.P. in his sights at all times. However, the responsibility only heightens his temptation to pull the trigger.
Character compass
Ryan Cross
Discussion points
What do you think are the main qualities that make someone a good team member, like the characters in the Shadow Squadron?
How do you feel about the decisions the team had to make during their mission? What would you have done differently?
Why is trust important in teamwork, especially in high-stress situations like those in the book?
What did you learn about leadership and responsibility from the characters' experiences?
How do you think the team members felt about their mission? Can you explain using examples from the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, give your child a brief overview of what teamwork and leadership mean. This will set a foundation for deeper conversation around the book’s themes.
Encourage your child to express their opinions and feelings about the book, reassuring them that there are no right or wrong answers in these discussions.
Relate the scenarios in the book to real-life situations, asking your child how they would react in similar circumstances, to help them connect with the characters and their choices.
Highlight the importance of every team member’s role in achieving a common goal, as shown in the book, to stress the value of each individual’s contribution.
Ask your child to think about a time they had to work in a team, and compare that experience to the teamwork displayed in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: Throughout 'Sniper Shield', the members of Shadow Squadron work together to accomplish their missions. The importance of each team member's role and collaboration is highlighted as essential to their success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to collaborate with peers during group projects or team sports, understanding that each team member's contribution is vital.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Leadership
Explanation: Lieutenant Commander Ryan Cross demonstrates strong leadership by making difficult decisions and guiding his team effectively. His sense of responsibility towards his team's safety and mission objectives is a central theme.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply these principles by taking on more responsibilities at home or in school, and by being reliable and accountable in their actions.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The team often faces unexpected challenges and must think critically and creatively to resolve them. This promotes the idea that adaptable and strategic thinking is crucial.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to use problem-solving skills in their daily lives, such as in resolving conflicts with friends or tackling challenging academic assignments.
Example Lesson: Bravery and Courage
Explanation: The characters in 'Sniper Shield' frequently demonstrate bravery, facing dangerous situations with courage and determination. This highlights the value of courage in the face of adversity.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to face their own fears and challenges, whether it's trying new activities, standing up for themselves, or dealing with difficult situations at school or home.
Example Lesson: Ethical Decision-Making
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters are faced with making tough choices that test their morals and ethics. These moments teach the importance of considering the consequences of one’s actions.
Real-World Application: This can help children think critically about right and wrong and make ethical choices in their interactions with others, such as being honest and fair in games and sharing with siblings or friends.