The Trust: A Secret Society Novel
#2 in The Not-So Secret Society Series
on Goodreads (316)
What’s inside...
Four wealthy Manhattan teenagers, Phoebe, Nick, Lauren, and Patch, are members of a secret society that promised to fulfill their every wish but has turned their lives into a nightmare. As they navigate a new semester at Chadwick School, they realize the Society's dangerous agenda, including the death of two classmates. The group's leaders, once trusted friends and family, begin to show their true colors, leading the teenagers to fight to break free from the secret group's grip. As relationships and friendships are tested, they must face their darkest fear that they may never be able to leave the Society.
Discussion points
What do you think are the most important qualities in a friend, and how do the characters in 'The Trust' demonstrate these qualities?
How do the characters in the book handle trust and secrets? Do you think they handled them well?
What would you do if you were in the protagonist's position? Would you make the same choices?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the theme of trust: Discuss with them how trust is built, broken, and restored in relationships.
Use examples from the book to talk about consequences: Guide your child to consider the outcomes of the characters' decisions and actions.
Create connections to personal experiences: Ask your child if they've ever faced similar dilemmas or situations as the characters and how they dealt with them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of trust and honesty
Explanation: Throughout the novel, characters face consequences stemming from breaches of trust and dishonesty, emphasizing the impact of these values.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of being honest and trustworthy in their relationships and interactions, shaping their character and social interactions.
Example Lesson: The impact of peer pressure
Explanation: Characters in the book often succumb to peer pressure, leading to critical mistakes and learnings, showcasing the influence peers can have on one's decisions.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of making independent choices and not being swayed by others, fostering a stronger sense of self.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences of actions
Explanation: The novel portrays the ripple effects of the characters’ actions on themselves and others, encouraging the readers to think before they act.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to consider the potential outcomes of their actions, promoting responsible decision-making.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Characters face various challenges but persist through hardships, highlighting the rewards of determination and hard work.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to adopt a persistent attitude when facing their own challenges, be it in academics, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Dealing with change and uncertainty
Explanation: As characters navigate a shifting social landscape, their adaptability is put to the test, teaching resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to better handle changes and uncertainties in their lives, preparing them for the dynamic nature of the world.