The End Games
on Goodreads (3,270)
What’s inside...
In T. Michael Martin's debut novel, seventeen-year-old Michael and his five-year-old brother, Patrick, navigate a post-apocalyptic world brought back to life through a dangerous Game. The brothers, armed with only a rifle and their love for each other, follow instructions from the mysterious Game Master in the rural mountains of West Virginia. They spend their days searching for survivors and their nights fighting 'Bellows,' creatures that roam the dark in search of flesh. As they become adept at surviving The Game, it begins to evolve, introducing them to other survivors who play by different rules. This thrilling narrative blends electrifying action, emotional depth, and an unexpected romance, reminiscent of a cross between John Green and Stephen King.
Age
14-17
Length
369 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Michael Faris
Holly
Patrick Faris
Colonel
Discussion points
What do you think Michael and Patrick learned about themselves and each other during their journey?
How do you feel about the choices the characters made in tough situations? Would you have done anything differently?
What do you think the monsters represent in the story, and how does that change your view of the challenges you face in your own life?
Why do you think teamwork and trust were important in this story?
How can we apply the lessons learned from 'The End Games' to our daily challenges and relationships?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and relate the scenarios to their personal experiences.
Discuss the moral dilemmas presented in the book and ask your child what they would do in similar situations, reinforcing the importance of values and ethics.
Draw parallels between the fantasy elements of the story and real-world issues to deepen understanding and empathy.
As you explore the characters' decisions and consequences, encourage critical thinking by asking your child how different choices could have led to different outcomes.
Highlight the brotherly bond between Michael and Patrick to discuss the importance of family and support in overcoming life's challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience
Explanation: In 'The End Games,' the characters face numerous challenges in a post-apocalyptic setting, showcasing their ability to adapt and persevere.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to tackle their problems head-on and keep going even when situations get tough, whether it's dealing with school challenges or personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: The protagonist and his younger brother must rely on each other and other survivors to navigate their dangerous world, highlighting the strength found in working together.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of collaborating with others to achieve common goals, be it in group projects at school or in extracurricular activities.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision making
Explanation: Characters in the book frequently face moral dilemmas, forcing them to make decisions that weigh survival against humanity.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of considering what is right and fair when making decisions, helping them develop a strong moral compass in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Coping with fear
Explanation: Throughout 'The End Games,' the characters encounter terrifying situations, yet they learn to manage their fears and face them bravely.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to confront their own fears and anxieties, whether it’s trying out for a sports team, performing on stage, or making new friends.
Example Lesson: The power of hope
Explanation: Despite the bleak circumstances, the characters in the story maintain hope for a better future, which fuels their determination to survive.
Real-World Application: Inspiring children to remain hopeful and optimistic during difficult times can help them maintain mental and emotional well-being, and strive for a brighter future.