Stars and Smoke, Book 1
#1 of 2 in Stars and Smoke Series
on Goodreads (10,240)
What’s inside...
In this electrifying new series by Marie Lu, a global pop sensation, Winter Young, and a top young spy, Sydney Cossette, are thrown into a dangerous mission together. As Winter's bodyguard, Sydney must infiltrate a crime organization, while Winter joins her as a spy recruit. Despite her resistance to his charms, their partnership challenges her perceptions of him, intertwining danger and romance in a thrilling narrative.
Character compass
Winter Young
Sydney Cossette
Eli Morrison
Discussion points
How do the main characters' actions help them overcome challenges?
What do you think motivated the characters to make their choices?
Can you imagine a different ending for the story? What would it be?
How does the theme of courage present itself in the book?
What lessons did you learn from the characters' journeys?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start conversations by relating themes from the book to real-life experiences your child may encounter. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the characters and events, fostering deeper understanding and empathy. Utilize the questions to explore the narrative together, opening avenues for critical thinking and moral reasoning. Read passages aloud together to highlight key moments, helping your child connect with the text emotionally and intellectually.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters must collaborate to solve problems, highlighting how working together often leads to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to share tasks and listen to their peers to achieve a common goal.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The protagonists encounter numerous obstacles, but their determination and resilience help them to overcome these hurdles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to persist through their own challenges, whether in completing a difficult school assignment or resolving conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: The value of honesty
Explanation: Characters in the book face consequences for deceit, demonstrating that honesty is the best policy.
Real-World Application: Children learn the benefits of being truthful in their interactions and the trust it builds with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Understanding diverse perspectives
Explanation: The book includes a variety of characters from different backgrounds, encouraging readers to see the world from multiple viewpoints.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be more open-minded and empathetic towards people who may appear different from them.