The Undertaking: A Novel
on Goodreads (3,633)
What’s inside...
When the Bible talks about spiritual gifts, Aliyah Daltores, a typical teenager, stumbles across a family secret that reveals she has a unique gift that changes her world. Meanwhile, in a parallel narrative set during World War II, Peter Faber, a German soldier, marries Katharina Spinell in a marriage of convenience. As the war intensifies, their lives become entwined with the brutal realities and ambitions of wartime, leading to a tragic yet gripping tale of love, ambition, and survival.
Age
18-21
Length
164 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Peter Faber
Katharina Spinell
Frau Spinell
Herr Spinell
Discussion points
How do the characters' decisions shape the story, and what does that teach us about the impact of our choices?
What emotions did you feel when reading about the characters' experiences during the war, and why do you think you felt that way?
How do the relationships between characters change throughout the book, and what can we learn from their interactions?
What role does the setting play in the overall mood and development of the story?
If you were in the main character's shoes, how would you have handled the challenges faced?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the discussion by sharing your own thoughts on the book, encouraging an open and judgement-free conversation.
Ask your child to draw parallels between the events in the book and anything similar they’ve observed in real life or other stories.
Encourage them to think about the historical context of the story, promoting a deeper understanding of the time period and its challenges.
Focus on the emotional journey of the characters to help your child connect personally with the story and enhance empathy.
Use follow-up questions to dig deeper into your child’s responses, nurturing critical thinking skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: In 'The Undertaking,' characters face the harsh realities of war, which teaches readers the importance of understanding and sharing the feelings of others, even in dire circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize emotions in others and respond compassionately, aiding in the development of strong interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: The consequences of choices
Explanation: The narrative explores how the decisions made by individuals can lead to significant consequences, both positive and negative.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of thinking before acting, and encourages them to consider the potential outcomes of their decisions.
Example Lesson: The value of resilience
Explanation: Characters in the book often face difficult situations that require them to be resilient in order to survive and move forward.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to adapt to challenges and setbacks, fostering a sense of perseverance that is vital for personal growth and success.