The Mockingbirds
#1 in The Mockingbirds Series
on Goodreads (6,231)
What’s inside...
Some schools have honor codes.
Others have handbooks.
Themis Academy has the Mockingbirds.
From the glossy pages of its admissions brochure, the prestigious Themis Academy appears perfect in every way: exceptional academics, extraordinary students, the kind of extracurriculars to make an Ivy League proud, and zero instances of student misbehavior. But this boarding school isn't as pristine as it appears. There's a dark underbelly to the perfect record the Themis administration flaunts. Student infractions are rampant, and it's up to a secret vigilante society, the Mockingbirds, to maintain order on campus--a responsibility their members take very seriously.
Alex Patrick never thought she would need the Mockingbirds. But when she's date-raped by another student, she doesn't know where else to go. As much as she'd like to forget what happened, she can't escape the daily reminders of what went wrong that terrible night. Before she can summon the courage to take a stand, she'll have to accept that her battle for justice is not hers alone. Standing up for someone, especially yourself, is worth the fight.
Character compass
Alex Patrick
Martin
Carter
Alexandra "Alex" Patrick
Miss Damata
Carter Hutchinson
Tammy Stacy
Martin Summers
Natalie Moretti
Ivy Merritt
Ilana Ahearn
Amy Nichols
Jones Miner
Casey Patrick
Maia Tan
Discussion points
What did you think about the way the students in the story handled the situation? What would you have done differently?
Why do you think it's important for everyone to have a voice and feel heard?
The Mockingbirds stand up against unfairness. Can you think of a time when you saw someone stand up for what's right? How did it make you feel?
How do the characters in the book change from the beginning to the end? What do you think caused these changes?
If you were a character in 'The Mockingbirds', who would you want to be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their opinions about the book's events, emphasizing that their viewpoint is valuable.
Discuss the concept of fairness and justice, linking it to real-life scenarios that your child might encounter at school or in the community.
Ask your child how they would feel in the characters’ situations, which helps develop empathy and moral reasoning.
Relate the book's themes to your child's experiences, encouraging them to share and reflect on their own stories of witnessing or standing up against unfairness.
Praise your child for thoughtful responses and insights during your discussion, reinforcing their analytical skills and boosting their confidence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of unity and teamwork
Explanation: The Mockingbirds showcases how characters come together to solve a problem, emphasizing the strength found in unity.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by collaborating with peers in school projects or during team sports, learning that collective effort often leads to better outcomes.
Example Lesson: Standing up for what is right
Explanation: Characters in the story take a stand against wrongdoings, teaching the importance of morals and ethics.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to speak up against unfairness or bullying they witness in school or their community.
Example Lesson: The importance of community support
Explanation: The characters receive support from their community, highlighting how crucial a supportive network is during challenging times.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to seek help from family, teachers, or friends when facing difficulties, understanding they are not alone.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through character interactions, the story promotes understanding different perspectives and showing empathy.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop better relationships by considering how others feel and responding with compassion in social situations.