The Underneath
Paul Faustino Series
What’s inside...
An old hound that has been chained up at his hateful owner's run-down shack, and two kittens born underneath the house, endure separation, danger, and many other tribulations in their quest to be reunited and free. Together they form an unlikely family, finding solace and safety underneath the porch of the shack, hiding from the owner who would use them for alligator bait. Despite the odds, their curiosity leads them on a profound journey filled with love, hate, and the importance of keeping promises. This emotionally rich tale is reminiscent of classics like Sounder, Shiloh, and The Yearling, and is written in the hauntingly beautiful style of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, Flannery O'Connor, and Carson McCullers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
313 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Puck
Sabine
The Calico Cat
The Ranger
Grandmother Moccasin
Gar Face
Hawk Man
Ranger
Night Song
Mama
Discussion points
How do you think Ranger feels about being stuck underneath the porch? What would you do if you were in his place?
What do you think the author wants us to learn from the relationship between the animals in the story?
Why is it important to keep promises, as shown through the characters in the book?
How does the setting of the bayou influence the story? What differences would there be if it was set in a city?
What can we learn about friendship and trust from the interactions between different characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start with sharing your thoughts on the book to inspire your child to express their opinions and feelings about the story.
Ask your child to pick their favorite character and explain why they like them. This can lead to deeper discussions about the character's qualities and actions.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative scenarios in the book. Discuss how the story might change with different choices or behaviors from the characters.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life situations to help your child connect with the themes of trust and friendship.
Praise your child's responses to stimulate further conversation and confidence in expressing their thoughts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of compassion and empathy
Explanation: In 'The Underneath', the characters Ranger and Puck show kindness towards each other despite the harsh circumstances they face. Their actions are a testament to the power of compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing empathy towards their peers and animals, understanding their feelings, and offering friendship and support in difficult times.
Example Lesson: The consequences of actions
Explanation: The book portrays how the antagonist's cruelty affects others, especially the suffering inflicted on the innocent animals. This highlights the impact of negative actions on others' lives.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to consider the consequences of their actions on others, encouraging them to make positive choices that do not harm others.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: The characters in the book face numerous challenges but continue to strive for safety and protection. Their perseverance is pivotal to their survival and eventual happiness.
Real-World Application: Children learn to keep trying even when faced with difficulties, understanding that persistence is often key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: The significance of family and friendships
Explanation: Throughout 'The Underneath', the bonds between the characters, like Ranger and the cats, are emphasized as crucial for emotional support and survival in a harsh environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children value and nurture relationships with their family and friends, recognizing the importance of these bonds in providing love and support.