Temple Boys
on Goodreads (33)
What’s inside...
Set in Jerusalem during year zero, 'Temple Boys' follows Flea, a member of a gang of homeless teenage vagrants in the shadow of the Temple. Surviving on wits and petty theft, Flea's life changes when the Magician arrives, preaching miracles and revolution. As Flea questions the Magician's authenticity, he discovers the power he holds that could impact the fate of the Magician and the world. The novel vividly reimagines the most famous Biblical story from the perspective of a streetwise teenager, embroiled in conflicts, loyalty, and betrayal amidst a city teeming with political tension.
Age
12-18
Length
288 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Flea felt when he first met Jesus, and how did his feelings change throughout the book?
What similarities and differences do you see between your life and the lives of the Temple Boys?
Why is it important to stand up for what you believe in, like some characters in the story?
How do the settings in the book influence the events and the characters’ actions?
If you could give Flea one piece of advice, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Initiate the conversation by sharing your own thoughts about the book’s setting and time period to encourage your child’s historical imagination.
Reflect together on how each character’s decisions impacted the plot, fostering critical thinking.
Discuss the moral challenges characters face to instill values of courage and integrity.
Ask your child to draw parallels between the events in the book and their own life experiences, enhancing personal connection.
Encourage your child to ask questions about any aspect of the story they are curious about, supporting their inquisitive nature.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Temple Boys', the diverse group of characters allows readers to see the world from multiple perspectives, fostering empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to appreciate diverse viewpoints in school or among friends, which can lead to more harmonious interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: The protagonist's adventures reflect themes of courage in the face of adversity, teaching readers about resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can draw on the protagonist’s bravery when facing their own challenges, such as trying new activities or standing up for what’s right.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Through the bonds formed between the characters, the story highlights the value and impact of friendship.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of building and maintaining friendships, and how to be a supportive friend in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: Characters in the book experience the results of their decisions, which illustrates the concept of actions leading to consequences.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to think about the potential outcomes of their choices, encouraging them to make thoughtful decisions.
Example Lesson: Historical Awareness
Explanation: Set in a rich historical context, the book provides insight into a different time and place, enhancing historical awareness and curiosity.
Real-World Application: Children can use this knowledge to better understand history lessons at school and develop a deeper appreciation for different cultures and times.