The Last Kids on Earth and the Forbidden Fortress
#8 of 9 in The Last Kids on Earth Series
What’s inside...
The highly-anticipated eighth book in the #1 New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling series, with over 10 million copies in print! Picking up after Quint and Dirk's Hero Quest, the Last Kids are happily reunited--but quickly faced with a monstrous new mission. Inside an other-dimensional fortress, the evil Thrull, alongside a vile new villain, is carrying out a sinister plan. Jack, Quint, June and Dirk must make their own plans to infiltrate the stronghold before Thrull gets any closer to completing the mysterious Tower, a structure that could ultimately spell doom for this dimension.
Character compass
Jack Sullivan
Dirk Savage
Quint Baker
June Del Toro
Evie Snark
Discussion points
What would you do if you were in the shoes of the characters and had to face monsters?
How do the friendships in the story change or grow? Can you relate to any of the friendships?
What are some of the key challenges the characters face and how do they overcome them?
Which character do you admire the most and why?
If you could change one thing about the story, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on a key aspect of the book, such as your favorite character, to encourage your child to open up.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene from the book. Use this visual to dive deeper into the story’s themes and character choices.
Create a comfortable and distraction-free reading environment to make the discussion more engaging and attentive.
Connect the book’s scenarios to real-life situations, which can help your child to relate better and enhance their understanding of the story.
Praise your child’s responses, even if they interpret the story differently, to encourage more open conversation and critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The characters in 'The Last Kids on Earth and the Forbidden Fortress' work together to overcome challenges and solve problems, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by collaborating with peers in school projects or sports, learning that combined efforts often lead to greater success.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters face various dangers and adversities, showing courage and resilience in daunting situations.
Real-World Application: Kids can reflect this by standing up for themselves or others, trying new activities, or facing their fears in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The protagonists frequently use their ingenuity and resourcefulness to navigate obstacles and devise plans, highlighting effective problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to think critically and creatively when faced with challenges, whether in academic settings or personal life.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The story emphasizes strong friendships among the characters, showing how support and understanding are vital in relationships.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of nurturing friendships and being a supportive friend in their own social circles.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The young heroes often adapt to new threats and environments, learning to be flexible and resilient in the face of change.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace change positively, adjusting to new schools, communities, or family dynamics with optimism.