The Marvelous
on Goodreads (719)
What’s inside...
From the author of Let’s Talk About Love and If It Makes You Happy, this exuberant YA novel follows six teens locked together in a mansion, contending for a life-changing cash prize in a competition run by a reclusive heiress. Everyone thinks they know Jewel Van Hanen, heiress turned actress turned social media darling who created the massively popular video-sharing app, Golden Rule. After mysteriously disappearing for a year, Jewel makes her dramatic return and chooses a few lucky Golden Rule users to spend an unforgettable weekend at her private estate. However, once they arrive, Jewel flips the script, turning the guests into players in an elaborate estate-wide game, tailoring every challenge and obstacle to test their limits and see if they have what it takes to win—at any cost. Told from the perspective of three dazzling characters—the new queen of Golden Rule, Jewel’s biggest fan, and a brilliant outsider—this novel will charm its way into your heart and keep you guessing until the end, as money isn’t the only thing at stake.
Age
13-18
Length
336 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Samantha Byrd
Taylor
Nicole
Jade Jennings
Discussion points
What did you think about the world that was created in 'The Marvelous'? What made it interesting or different?
Which character did you relate to the most, and why?
How do you think the characters felt during their adventures? Can you think of a time when you felt similar?
If you could ask any character in the book a question, who and what would you ask?
What lessons can we learn from the challenges faced by the characters in 'The Marvelous'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before beginning the book, ask your child what they expect the story to be about based on the cover and title. This sets the stage for active reading.
Use pauses at the end of each chapter to discuss thoughts and feelings about the plot developments. It helps in comprehension and emotional understanding.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative scenarios by asking, 'What do you think would happen if...?' This enhances creative thinking and engagement with the text.
After completing the book, have your child summarize the story in their own words. This reinforces retention and gives insight into their understanding.
Connect themes or lessons from the book to real-life situations or personal experiences, which can help to deepen the child's empathy and comprehension.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of self-acceptance
Explanation: In 'The Marvelous', the protagonist learns to embrace their unique qualities, illustrating the journey towards self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate their differences and cultivate a positive self-image, aiding in their emotional and social development.
Example Lesson: Valuing friendship
Explanation: The story underscores the significance of friendship through the characters' supportive interactions, highlighting its impact on overcoming challenges.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of building and maintaining meaningful relationships, fostering empathy and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: Characters in the book confront and overcome their fears, providing a blueprint for bravery and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their own fears and learn that overcoming obstacles is achievable with perseverance and courage.
Example Lesson: The power of honesty
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, characters learn the consequences of deceit and the benefits of honesty, reinforcing the value of truthfulness.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of being truthful in their daily interactions and the positive effects it has on relationships.
Example Lesson: Understanding and expressing emotions
Explanation: The characters in 'The Marvelous' navigate a range of emotions, demonstrating healthy ways to express and manage feelings.
Real-World Application: This provides children with strategies to express their emotions constructively, enhancing their emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.