The School for Invisible Boys (The Kairos Files Book 1)
#1 of 2 in The Kairos Files Series
on Goodreads (235)
What’s inside...
In this surreal adventure, a boy named Hector Griggs discovers he has the ability to turn invisible after being constantly bullied by his former best friend. As he explores his new power, he meets another invisible boy, Orson Wellington, who warns him about a dangerous creature called the gelim that preys on students' loneliness and fear. Together with a mysterious new classmate, Sam, Hector must unravel the mysteries haunting St. Lawrence’s Catholic School for Boys and confront the gelim to save Orson and himself. Ultimately, Hector learns that sometimes it takes disappearing to really be seen.
Discussion points
How do you think the invisibility of the boys at the school impacts their feelings and interactions with others?
What would you do if you were a student at the School for Invisible Boys?
Can you think of a time when you felt 'invisible'? How did you handle that situation?
If you could have any superpower to help your friends, what would it be and why?
What do you think is the most important lesson to be learned from the boys' experiences in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by reading or summarizing parts of the book together, focusing on pivotal moments that define the characters' journeys. Express genuine curiosity about your child's thoughts and feelings regarding the story, encouraging them to relate personal experiences to those of the characters. Use follow-up questions to delve deeper into your child's responses, fostering a richer understanding of the themes. Compliment their insights to build confidence in expressing their views. Highlight the importance of empathy and understanding differing perspectives, drawing parallels to real-life situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Self and Others
Explanation: The protagonist navigates challenges at an unusual school, learning to accept his unique abilities and those of his peers, encouraging a celebration of differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to value their unique qualities and be more accepting and inclusive of others who may be different from themselves in their own schools and communities.
Example Lesson: Courage in Adversity
Explanation: The characters often face difficult situations requiring bravery, showcasing the importance of facing fears and standing up for what's right.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply courage in their daily lives, standing up against bullying or advocating for themselves and others in challenging situations.
Example Lesson: Collaboration and Teamwork
Explanation: The students in the book frequently work together to solve problems and overcome obstacles, highlighting the strength found in teamwork.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to engage in cooperative play and team activities, understanding that collaboration can lead to successful outcomes.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Strong friendships form among the characters as they go through shared experiences, underscoring the value of trust and mutual support.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate and nurture their friendships, recognizing how vital emotional support is in overcoming life’s challenges.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Adaptability
Explanation: Despite the supernatural setting, the characters demonstrate resilience, adapting to new and challenging environments.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be resilient in the face of change, whether it's moving to a new school, dealing with family changes, or adapting to any new situation.