The Ones We're Meant to Find
on Goodreads (11,078)
What’s inside...
Cee has been stranded on a deserted island for three years with no memory of her past or how she arrived there. Living in a rickety house with only an old android for company, she clings to the knowledge that she has a sister named Kay somewhere beyond the horizon, whom she is determined to find. Meanwhile, 16-year-old STEM prodigy Kasey Mizuhara lives in a separate eco-city designed for environmental protection, where life is regulated by stasis pods and virtual activities. Kasey's sister, Celia, who loved the outside world, disappeared at sea three months ago. Despite believing Celia to be dead, Kasey decides to follow her sister's mysterious last steps. As the stories of these two sisters unfold, they reveal a world of mind-blowing twists, all while exploring themes of environmental protection and the human impact on Earth. Perfect for fans of Rick Yancey and Marie Lu, 'The Ones We're Meant to Find' is a sci-fi fantasy from the critically-acclaimed author, Joan He.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-17
Length
384 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the relationship between the sisters in the book make you feel about your own relationships with siblings or friends?
What would you do if you were in a similar situation as the characters, having to make tough decisions to save someone you love?
The environment plays a big role in this story. Why do you think taking care of our planet is important?
How do the characters' choices throughout the book show their growth and change?
What does the concept of 'home' mean to you after reading this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start your discussion with a general question about how they felt about the book to open up a conversational space.
Emphasize listening and ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to show genuine interest.
Connect the story to your child’s experiences by relating themes of the book like environmental care or family bonds to their everyday life.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or different choices the characters could have made, enhancing their critical thinking.
Discuss the significance of the book’s setting and how it influences the characters, fostering a deeper understanding of the narrative.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters face significant challenges and persist in their efforts despite difficulties. This demonstrates the power and importance of perseverance in achieving goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by continuing to work towards their own goals, whether it's completing a difficult school project or learning a new skill, even when it becomes challenging.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness and responsibility
Explanation: Set in the near future, the story addresses the impact of environmental degradation on the planet and its inhabitants, emphasizing the need for sustainable living and environmental stewardship.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to be more conscious of their environmental impact by engaging in recycling, conserving water, and learning more about how their actions can affect the world around them.
Example Lesson: The complexity of human relationships
Explanation: The book explores complex sibling relationships and the bonds between friends, highlighting how misunderstandings and communication can affect relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can reflect on their relationships with siblings and friends, learning the importance of open communication and understanding different perspectives to foster stronger bonds.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: Characters in the story often have to collaborate to solve problems, which showcases the necessity and effectiveness of working together.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to participate in group activities and learn how to cooperate with others in school projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision-making
Explanation: The protagonists frequently face moral dilemmas that require them to make difficult decisions, teaching the importance of considering ethical implications in decision-making.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of thinking through the consequences of their actions and making choices that align with their values and principles.