The School for Whatnots
on Goodreads (2,178)
What’s inside...
From master of suspense author Margaret Peterson Haddix comes a thrilling middle-grade novel about Max and Josie's inseparable friendship, which takes a mysterious turn when Josie disappears, leaving only a cryptic note about 'whatnot rules.' As Max searches for answers to Josie's disappearance and her cryptic message, he learns about privilege, true friendship, and the essence of humanity. Meanwhile, Josie fights to reconnect with Max, but forces are at work to keep them apart, revealing that Josie's existence may not have been real after all. This suspenseful narrative explores deep themes of identity and the meaning of being real.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
304 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the concept of friendship is portrayed in 'The School for Whatnots'? What makes a true friend?
What are your thoughts on the differences between being a 'Whatnot' and being human in the story? How do the characters handle these differences?
Why do you think the characters had to keep secrets in the story? How do secrets affect their relationships and decisions?
Can you think of a moment in the book where someone had to make a tough choice? What would you have done in that situation?
What lessons do you think 'The School for Whatnots' teaches about trust and loyalty?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion with a positive tone, perhaps by mentioning a favorite scene or character to make the conversation more relatable.
Encourage your child to express their opinions and feelings about the book, affirming that there’s no wrong answer when interpreting stories.
Help your child draw parallels between the narrative and their own life experiences, which can deepen understanding and empathy.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to keep the dialogue flowing and to show genuine interest in their thoughts.
Conclude the conversation by asking if there’s anything they would change about the story, fostering critical thinking and creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: In 'The School for Whatnots', friendships play a crucial role in overcoming challenges and solving mysteries, demonstrating the importance of trust and teamwork among friends.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and maintain their friendships, understanding that cooperation and support are key in solving problems and facing daily challenges.
Example Lesson: Identity and self-worth
Explanation: The story explores themes of identity and the quest for self-understanding, as characters grapple with who they are and their place in the world.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to reflect on their own identities and recognize their unique value, which is crucial for their self-esteem and personal development.
Example Lesson: The importance of questioning and curiosity
Explanation: Characters in the book often engage in critical thinking and question the status quo, which is pivotal to the plot's progression and resolution.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to ask questions and think critically about the world around them, fostering a lifelong love of learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision making
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, characters face moral dilemmas requiring them to choose between right and wrong, highlighting the complexities of ethical decision-making.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of making ethical choices and considering the consequences of their actions on themselves and others.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: As the characters in 'The School for Whatnots' confront various challenges, their resilience shines through, showing readers the power of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to remain resilient and hopeful even during difficult times, which is a vital skill for navigating life's ups and downs.