The League of Secret Heroes: Mask
#2 of 3 in The League of Secret Heroes Series
What’s inside...
After defeating The Hissler and discovering their power as a team, The League of Secret Heroes are ready for their next adventure. When Akiko, Mae, and Josie learn that a spy is betraying secrets to the Japanese military, they join Room Twelve in San Francisco for important work with other code-cracking experts. However, Akiko is shocked to see her mother with the suspected spy where her family used to live. San Francisco had been their home until Executive Order No. 9066, which sent Akiko and all Japanese Americans on the West Coast into internment camps. Akiko fears her mother has become tangled up with something sinister, and soon, more evil forces are menacing the very camp where Akiko’s family is supposed to be. With the help of her fellow Secret Heroes, Akiko must solve the most important puzzle of all.
Character compass
Josie O'malley
Akiko Nakano
Mae Washington
Discussion points
How do you think Mae and Josie felt when they discovered their powers? Can you relate that to any moment in your life when you discovered something new about yourself?
What are some ways the girls worked together in 'The League of Secret Heroes: Mask'? Why is teamwork important in achieving goals?
If you had a superpower like the characters in the book, what would it be and how would you use it to help others?
The setting of the story takes place during a challenging time in history. What did you learn about that era, and what differences or similarities do you see with the world today?
What do you think is the message the author, Kate Hannigan, is trying to convey through the story? How does it apply to your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the characters' situations, fostering empathy and deeper understanding.
Discuss the historical background of the story. It provides a great opportunity to educate your child about world history and the significance of personal contributions during tough times.
Highlight the importance of perseverance and bravery shown by the characters, relating those qualities to real-life scenarios your child might face.
Use the superpowers theme as a fun starting point to talk about personal strengths and how your child can use their unique abilities to overcome challenges or help others.
After reading the book, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character. This can serve as a creative way to continue the conversation and delve deeper into the story’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout 'The League of Secret Heroes: Mask,' the characters must work together to solve puzzles and overcome challenges, highlighting the importance of cooperation and collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports teams, learning to value each member's contribution and working together towards common goals.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonists face various dangers and obstacles but demonstrate bravery and resilience. Their courage helps them to tackle difficult situations head-on.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own challenges, whether it’s standing up against bullying, trying out new activities, or speaking up in class, with confidence and bravery.
Example Lesson: The value of intellectual curiosity
Explanation: The young heroes use their intellect and curiosity to crack codes and uncover secrets, showing how knowledge and a questioning mind can be powerful tools.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to embrace learning, ask questions, and explore new subjects in school and their daily lives, fostering a lifelong love for knowledge.
Example Lesson: Importance of Identity
Explanation: As the characters navigate their secret double lives, they explore and affirm their own identities, which is crucial for their mission and personal growth.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the importance of self-awareness and being true to oneself, which is essential for personal development and forming healthy relationships.
Example Lesson: Equality and Inclusivity
Explanation: The diverse group of girls from different backgrounds working together as equals teaches the importance of inclusivity and respecting differences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace diversity in their communities and schools, promoting a more inclusive environment for everyone.