The Outliers
#1 in Outliers Series
on Goodreads (9,502)
What’s inside...
It all starts with a text: Please, Wylie, I need your help.
Wylie hasn’t heard from Cassie in over a week, not since their last fight. But that doesn’t matter. Cassie’s in trouble, so Wylie decides to do what she has done so many times before: save her best friend from herself.
This time it’s different, though. Instead of telling Wylie where she is, Cassie sends cryptic clues. And instead of having Wylie come by herself, Jasper shows up saying Cassie sent him to help. Trusting the guy who sent Cassie off the rails doesn’t feel right, but Wylie has no choice: she has to ignore her gut instinct and go with him.
But figuring out where Cassie is goes from difficult to dangerous, fast. As Wylie and Jasper head farther and farther north into the dense woods of Maine, Wylie struggles to control her growing sense that something is really wrong. What isn’t Cassie telling them? And could finding her be only the beginning?
Why read this book
- Engaging mystery encourages critical thinking.
- Complex characters enhance emotional intelligence.
- Prompts discussions on decision-making and consequences.
- Suitable for advanced young readers seeking challenges.
Character compass
Wylie
Jasper
Discussion points
What do you think made the characters in 'The Outliers' react the way they did in difficult situations?
How do you feel about the concept of 'trust' as presented in the story? Can you relate to any characters’ trust issues?
What would you have done differently if you were in the protagonist’s place? Why?
How did the mystery element of the story make you feel as it unfolded? Were you surprised by the turns the plot took?
In what ways did the settings affect the mood and actions of the characters throughout 'The Outliers'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing your own impressions of the book and encourage your child to explore their initial feelings or favorite parts.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s daily experiences to draw parallels and deepen their understanding.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to foster creative thinking and perspective-taking.
Encourage the child to think of examples where they exhibited similar traits or faced similar challenges as the characters.
End the conversation by asking them how this book could influence their decisions or views on friendship and trust.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of critical thinking
Explanation: Throughout 'The Outliers', characters must solve complex problems and make quick decisions, promoting the value of using logic and reasoning.
Real-World Application: Children can apply critical thinking skills in academics and personal decisions, enhancing their problem-solving abilities and confidence.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: Characters in the book often rely on each other's unique strengths, demonstrating that collaboration can lead to achieving common goals.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to work cooperatively in group settings such as school projects or sports, appreciating others' input and fostering a spirit of teamwork.
Example Lesson: Understanding and managing emotions
Explanation: The protagonist navigates a range of emotions, showing readers how to cope with feelings in uncertain situations.
Real-World Application: Children can use these insights to handle their emotions wisely in stressful or unfamiliar circumstances, promoting emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: The significance of perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous challenges, the protagonist keeps pushing forward, illustrating the rewards of persistence and resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to remain determined and persistent when facing their own challenges, whether educational or personal.