The Testing
#1 in The Testing Series
on Goodreads (1,936)
What’s inside...
In the scarred and war-battered United Commonwealth, ten-year-old Cia Vale watches her older brother Zeen dream about being chosen for The Testing. He’s graduated at the top of his class, and being chosen, like his father was before him, means a chance to attend The University and help lead the effort to revitalize postwar civilization. Cia is conflicted—she hopes Zeen is chosen, but dreads him leaving home. She also realizes that one day she too must set her mind on being chosen. But does she realize the deadly path she will have to take? THE TESTING GUIDE is the short story prequel to The Testing, the first novel in the stunning and epic Testing Trilogy.
Character compass
Malencia Vale
Zandri Hicks
Malachi Rourke
Tomas Endress
Michal Gallen
Dr. Barnes
Will
Discussion points
How do you think Cia felt when she was chosen for the Testing? What would you have done in her place?
What qualities do you think a leader should possess? Do you see any of these qualities in the characters from the book?
The Testing challenges its characters in many ways. What was the most difficult challenge that Cia faced, and how did she handle it?
How does the idea of trust play out in the story? Are there characters that Cia should or shouldn't trust?
If you were to create a test for future leaders, what kind of tasks would you include and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their opinions about the book’s events and characters, supporting them to elaborate on their thoughts.
Relate themes from the book to your child’s personal experiences to deepen the connection and understanding of the story.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings for the book, enhancing their creative thinking and engagement.
Discuss moral and ethical questions raised by the book to stimulate critical thinking and personal values reflection.
Share your own insights and interpretations of the book to stimulate a two-way conversation and show that all viewpoints are valuable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: In 'The Testing', the protagonist, Cia, faces rigorous trials that test her physical and mental strength. Her determination to overcome each obstacle showcases the power of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face academic and personal challenges with courage and not to be deterred by setbacks, using them as stepping stones to grow.
Example Lesson: The importance of critical thinking
Explanation: Throughout the book, Cia must solve complex problems and make tough decisions that affect her future. This highlights the significance of critical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to analyze situations, weigh options, and make informed decisions in their daily interactions and problem-solving tasks.
Example Lesson: Ethics and morality
Explanation: Cia confronts moral dilemmas that question her values and integrity. Her choices reflect a commitment to doing what’s right, even when difficult.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of adhering to their values and making ethical decisions, influencing how they interact with others and handle situations of conflict.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: Cia learns that collaboration with her peers can lead to better solutions than working alone. The story promotes the effectiveness of teamwork in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value and participate in teamwork in school projects or sports, understanding that collective efforts often yield better results.
Example Lesson: The power of knowledge
Explanation: Cia’s success in 'The Testing' often comes from her academic knowledge and ability to apply it practically. This underscores the importance of education and learning.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to engage in their education, seeing learning as a tool that empowers them and opens up opportunities.