#2 in Animorphs Series
The Pretender
on Goodreads (3,872)
What’s inside...
Tobias, a red-tailed hawk morphed and trapped in his animal form, discovers a secret about his past that could change everything for him and his friends. Journey with him as he navigates through the difficult world of The Yeerks, a parasitic alien race.
Discussion points
Why do you think the main character decided to pretend to be someone else? How did it make them feel?
What do you think are the benefits and drawbacks of pretending to be someone else?
How do you think the story would have changed if the character had chosen to be themselves from the beginning?
Can you think of a time when you pretended to be something you're not? What did you learn from that experience?
What does this story teach us about the importance of honesty and being true to ourselves?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book's themes, ensuring a safe space for honest discussions.
Relate the scenarios in the book to real-life situations your child might encounter to help them connect with the story more deeply.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings to the story based on different choices the characters might make, enhancing creative thinking.
Discuss the characters' emotions and decisions to foster empathy and understanding in your child.
Highlight the moral of the story, focusing on the value of authenticity and self-acceptance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Honesty is the best policy
Explanation: The main character learns the importance of honesty after pretending leads to confusion and misunderstanding among friends.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be truthful in their everyday interactions, promoting trust and open communication with peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Understanding one's identity
Explanation: Through the journey of pretending to be someone else, the protagonist discovers the value of their own uniqueness and personal strengths.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to embrace who they are and recognize their individual qualities, boosting self-esteem and self-acceptance.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: The story shows how the character's pretense affects those around them, teaching the effects of our actions on others' emotions.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children develop empathy by considering how their behaviors might impact their friends and family, guiding them to make kinder choices.
Example Lesson: The power of forgiveness
Explanation: As the narrative unfolds, characters forgive the protagonist for the confusion caused, illustrating forgiveness.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of forgiving others for mistakes, helping to foster more harmonious relationships and promoting a forgiving attitude in their social interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage to admit mistakes
Explanation: The protagonist shows bravery by owning up to their actions and rectifying the situation, highlighting accountability.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to take responsibility for their actions and to courageously face and correct their mistakes, playing a vital role in character development.