The Captive
#2 in The secret circle Series
on Goodreads (11,333)
What’s inside...
Initiated into a coven of young witches, Cassie is intoxicated by her new-found strength - powers as addictive as they are dangerous. She is caught between two rival forces, forced to choose between two impossible actions: should she betray the ones she loves, or confess all and risk expulsion from the circle for ever? Intoxicated by her newfound strength after she joins the most popular crowd in school, Cassie falls for Diana's boyfriend, Adam, and could become a prisoner of her own love. Original.
Character compass
Cassie Blake
Diana Meade
Adam Conant
Faye Chamberlain
Melanie Glaser
Deborah Armstrong
Chris Henderson
Doug Henderson
Susan Whitler
Laurel Quincey
Nick Armstrong
Discussion points
How did the main character feel being trapped, and what would you do in their situation?
What does freedom mean to you, and why is it important?
How did the characters change throughout the story, and what can we learn from their transformations?
What would you have done differently if you were in the main character’s place?
How do the other characters in the book help the main character, and what does this teach us about friendship and support?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening to validate your child’s feelings and thoughts as they discuss the story.
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences, which can provide personal insights and deeper understanding.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to keep the conversation flowing and thought-provoking.
Link discussions to real-life examples of similar moral or ethical dilemmas, enhancing comprehension and retention.
Capitalize on moments of curiosity or confusion to explore and interpret the story’s themes and messages together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: In 'The Captive', the protagonist demonstrates understanding and compassion towards others' feelings and situations, which helps resolve conflicts.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to consider other people's perspectives and feelings, promoting kinder interactions with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: The main character faces various challenges but shows bravery and determination, which ultimately leads to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to tackle their own challenges head-on, be it in school, sports, or social situations, teaching resilience.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, friendships provide support and guidance to the characters, highlighting how essential good friends are during tough times.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of building and maintaining friendships, and how these relationships can offer emotional support and help solve problems.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and consequences
Explanation: The protagonist makes decisions that lead to consequences, teaching them the importance of considering the outcomes of their actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that their actions have effects on themselves and others, encouraging responsible behavior.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Characters in 'The Captive' face puzzles and dilemmas which they solve through critical thinking and collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply logical thinking and teamwork to overcome obstacles in school projects or in resolving conflicts with peers.