The Accident Season
on Goodreads (13,001)
What’s inside...
Every October, Cara and her family become inexplicably accident-prone, with some years being more severe than others. As Cara, her ex-stepbrother Sam, and her best friend Bea turn 17, they brace for a particularly bad accident season. However, Cara soon discovers that the accidents are tied to a deep family secret and this year she will not only confront physical scars but emotional ones as she unravels the truth about her family's past and falls desperately in love. The revelations will change her understanding of the adults in her life and reveal the dark origins of the accident season.
Age
13-14
Length
304 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Cara
Elsie
Alice
Bea
Sam
Discussion points
What do you think the accident season symbolizes in the story? How does it affect the characters?
The book explores secrets and hidden truths within a family. Can you think of any moments where a character's secret changed the way they interacted with others?
How do the relationships between the characters develop throughout the story? What do you think influences these changes?
The supernatural elements in the book blend with reality. What are some scenes where this blend stood out to you, and how did it make you feel?
In what ways do the characters face their fears, and how does this help them grow? Can you relate to any of their experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters and their situations, helping them connect personally with the story.
Discuss the significance of family and friendship in the book, prompting your child to reflect on their own relationships and social interactions.
Explore the theme of secrets by asking your child why people might keep secrets and the potential impacts of those secrets being revealed.
Guide your child to notice how the author uses supernatural elements to mirror real emotional experiences, enhancing their understanding of literary devices.
Support your child’s critical thinking by discussing the choices characters make and the consequences of those actions within the story’s context.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Facing fears and the power of support
Explanation: In the narrative, the characters confront their fears and secrets with the help of each other, showcasing the strength found in vulnerability and community.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of discussing their fears with trusted friends or family members and realize that they are not alone in their struggles.
Example Lesson: The impact of secrets and the importance of truth
Explanation: The book dives into the complexities of secrets within a family and their detrimental effects on relationships, driving the message that honesty can lead to healing and stronger bonds.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value honesty and transparency in their interactions, helping them build healthier and more trusting relationships.
Example Lesson: Acceptance and dealing with change
Explanation: Characters in the book undergo various personal transformations and learn to accept themselves and others, mirroring the often tumultuous journey towards self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their own changes and those in others, promoting resilience and adaptability in their personal development.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding different perspectives
Explanation: Through the interwoven stories and secrets, readers see the world from various viewpoints, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of others' experiences.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate diverse perspectives, enhancing their social skills and emotional intelligence.