The Rumor Game
on Goodreads (1,865)
What’s inside...
At Foxham Prep, a private school for DC’s elite, a rumor has the power to ruin lives. Bryn knows this firsthand after a scandal destroyed her reputation. As the new school year begins, a new rumor about Georgie, newly popular due to a summer makeover, shifts the social hierarchy and pits her against Cora. As rumors spread and lives unravel, someone close to the drama has the power to stop the gossip, but it's unclear if they want to. This social thriller by Dhonielle Clayton and Sona Charaipotra captures the intense dynamics of high school politics.
Discussion points
What do you think are the main messages of 'The Rumor Game'? How do they apply to your own experiences in school or with friends?
How did the characters in the book react to rumors? Can you think of a time when you heard a rumor and what you did about it?
How can spreading rumors affect someone’s feelings or reputation? What might be the long-term effects?
What actions can you take if you hear a rumor about someone else? Why is it important to verify information before sharing it?
In what ways did the characters grow or change by the end of the story? How do you think they felt about the events that happened?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before diving into the questions, share a personal story with your child about a time you encountered rumors. This will help them feel more comfortable and open to discussing their own experiences.
Encourage your child to think critically about the motives behind characters’ actions in the book. Discuss how understanding someone’s motives can create empathy and reduce the spread of rumors.
Highlight the importance of communication and honesty, and ask your child how they can apply these principles in their own friendships.
Reinforce the idea that it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them, just like the characters in the book.
As your child discusses their thoughts, remind them that their opinions are valued. Praise their insights to boost their confidence in expressing themselves.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The impact of spreading rumors
Explanation: The story revolves around how a single rumor can escalate and affect various lives in unintended ways.
Real-World Application: Teaches children about the consequences of gossiping and encourages responsible communication among peers.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Characters in the book face challenges and misunderstandings that highlight the importance of empathy in personal interactions.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to consider other people's feelings and perspectives before acting, promoting a more inclusive and supportive social environment.
Example Lesson: The power of social media
Explanation: The narrative demonstrates how quickly information can spread through social media, often without verification.
Real-World Application: Educates children on the responsible use of social media and the importance of fact-checking before sharing information.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters deal with the fallout from rumors and learn to overcome the challenges posed by misinformation.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to remain strong and steadfast when faced with difficulties, using problem-solving and critical thinking skills to navigate complex social situations.
Example Lesson: Accountability for one's actions
Explanation: As the characters confront the consequences of the rumor, they learn about accountability and the need for taking responsibility for their actions.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of owning up to their mistakes and understanding how their actions affect others, fostering a sense of responsibility.