#1 in The Peculiar Series
The Peculiar
on Goodreads (4,726)
What’s inside...
The story revolves around Bartholomew Kettle, an outcast among both humans and faeries, who goes on a journey to unravel the mystery behind a string of peculiar and deadly occurrences.
Character compass
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to live in a world where faeries and humans coexist? How would you interact with faeries if you met one?
How did Bartholomew’s actions show bravery and courage? Can you think of a time when you had to be brave?
Why is it important to stand up for what is right, even if it's difficult? What are some ways you can do this in your own life?
How do the characters in the book handle feeling different or out of place? What can we learn from them about acceptance and friendship?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine the settings and characters by asking them to draw scenes or characters from the book.
Discuss the moral dilemmas faced by the characters to help your child understand the complexity of their decisions and actions.
Relate the story to current events or historical situations to provide real-world connections to the themes discussed in the book.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next after key events, fostering critical thinking and engagement with the plot.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embrace diversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Bartholomew, is a changeling—a blend of human and faery, which symbolizes the rich diversity in our world. Throughout his adventures, readers see the importance of accepting others despite differences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and celebrate diversity among their peers, understanding that everyone's unique background contributes to the richness of our communities.
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: Bartholomew faces numerous challenges due to his mixed heritage, yet he displays significant bravery. His journey teaches children that courage isn’t the absence of fear but the triumph over it.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own challenges with bravery, whether it's standing up against bullies, trying out for a school play, or speaking up about their feelings.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Despite the dangers, Bartholomew forms genuine connections with both humans and faeries. These relationships are crucial to his survival and success, emphasizing the importance of trust and loyalty in friendships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of building and maintaining friendships, understanding that the support from friends can be vital during difficult times.
Example Lesson: Perseverance pays off
Explanation: Throughout the book, Bartholomew never gives up, even when the situation seems dire. This persistence shows the importance of persevering toward a goal despite obstacles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence in achieving their own goals, such as improving in a subject at school or mastering a new skill in sports or arts.
Example Lesson: Question and challenge injustice
Explanation: Bartholomew witnesses and experiences various forms of injustice in his world. His response is not passive; instead, he challenges these injustices, promoting a message of standing up for what is right.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to recognize unfairness, whether at school or in the community, and understand they have a voice to advocate for themselves and others.