#3 in Arc Of A Scythe Series
The Toll
on Goodreads (196,623)
What’s inside...
It’s been three years since Rowan and Citra disappeared; since Scythe Goddard came into power; since the Thunderhead closed itself off to everyone but Grayson Tolliver.
In this pulse-pounding conclusion to New York Times bestselling author Neal Shusterman’s Arc of a Scythe trilogy, constitutions are tested and old friends are brought back from the dead.
Character compass
Discussion points
How do you think the characters' choices affected the outcome of the story?
What themes in 'The Toll' resonated most with you and why?
In what ways do you see technology impacting society, similar to the world in 'The Toll'?
Which character do you relate to the most and what would you have done differently in their situation?
How do you think the concept of the toll affects the decisions people make in the book? Would you have made the same decisions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they expect from a story that blends science fiction with social commentary.
While discussing the book, relate the themes to current events or technological advancements to make the conversation more relevant.
Encourage your child to consider different perspectives by asking what they would do in a character’s situation.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to think about the moral implications of the characters’ actions and how they would apply those lessons to their own lives.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of decision-making and the potential consequences of those decisions, fostering critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of choice and free will
Explanation: In 'The Toll', characters often face significant choices that affect their futures, emphasizing the power and consequences of personal decisions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to consider the outcomes of their decisions and understand that they have the power to shape their own lives through the choices they make.
Example Lesson: The value of ethical leadership
Explanation: The story explores the impact of ethical and unethical leadership through its characters who hold positions of power, underlining how leaders' decisions affect others.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate the importance of fairness and integrity in leadership positions and encourage them to be morally responsible in roles of authority.
Example Lesson: The consequences of technological advancement
Explanation: The narrative delves into both the benefits and dangers of technological progress, prompting reflection on how technology should be used responsibly.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think critically about how they use technology and the effects it can have on their lives and society.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters in 'The Toll' often overcome significant challenges, teaching lessons about persistence and resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to persevere through their own difficulties and to view challenges as opportunities for growth.
Example Lesson: The power of unity and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters achieve more when they work together, illustrating the strength found in unity.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of teamwork and cooperation in achieving common goals and solving problems.