Time Between Us
#1 in Time Between Us Series
on Goodreads (11,586)
What’s inside...
Anna and Bennett were never supposed to meet: she lives in 1995 Chicago and he lives in 2012 San Francisco. But Bennett has the unique ability to travel through time and space, which brings him into Anna’s life, and with him a new world of adventure and possibility. As their relationship deepens, the two face the reality that time may knock Bennett back to where he belongs, even as a devastating crisis throws everything they believe into question. Against a ticking clock, Anna and Bennett are forced to ask themselves how far they can push the bounds of fate, what consequences they can bear in order to stay together, and whether their love can stand the test of time. Fresh, exciting, and deeply romantic, Time Between Us is a stunning, spellbinding debut from an extraordinary new voice in YA fiction.
Character compass
Annabel Greene
Bennett Cooper
Discussion points
How do you think Anna's ability to time travel affects her relationships with the people around her?
What challenges do you think Bennett faces when he tries to balance his secret with his normal life?
If you had the ability to time travel, what time period would you visit and why?
How do both Anna and Bennett show courage throughout the story?
What lessons can we learn about friendship and trust from Anna and Bennett's experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the characters' shoes, which can help deepen their understanding of the characters' decisions and emotions.
Discuss the moral implications of time travel presented in the book to help your child develop critical thinking about right and wrong.
Use the setting shifts between past and present as a fun way to discuss history and changes over time with your child.
Prompt your child to talk about how Anna and Bennett's story might inspire them in their own friendships and challenges.
Foster a deeper connection with your child by discussing personal experiences that relate to the themes of courage, trust, and managing secrets.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: In 'Time Between Us,' the characters learn to understand and share the feelings of one another, bridging gaps across time. Protagonists Anna and Bennett, despite being from different times, develop a deep emotional connection by recognizing each other's fears and aspirations.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to listen attentively and empathize with their friends and family members. Understanding different perspectives can help foster stronger relationships and encourage kindness.
Example Lesson: Valuing the present moment
Explanation: Throughout the story, Bennett's ability to time travel emphasizes the significance of living in the present. The characters learn that dwelling too much on the past or obsessing about the future can detract from experiencing the joy and opportunities available right now.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to focus on the present, appreciate small moments, and find joy in everyday activities without worrying excessively about what has passed or what is to come.
Example Lesson: The consequences of choices
Explanation: As Bennett and Anna make decisions about their time travel adventures, they face the repercussions of those choices, which affects not only themselves but also their loved ones. The story illustrates how every choice has consequences, teaching the importance of thoughtful decision-making.
Real-World Application: Children can use this understanding to think more critically about the consequences of their actions. By considering outcomes before acting, they can make more responsible decisions.
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: The characters in 'Time Between Us' often confront challenges that test their bravery, such as dealing with the implications of time travel and handling complex personal dilemmas. Their resilience in the face of these adversities emphasizes the value of courage.
Real-World Application: This narrative can inspire children to be bold and courageous when encountering their own challenges, whether it's trying something new or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: The power of honesty
Explanation: In the book, Anna and Bennett’s relationship deepens when they start being truthful with each other, despite the complexities introduced by time travel. This underlines how honesty can build trust and strengthen connections.
Real-World Application: By practicing honesty in their daily interactions, children can build stronger, more trusting relationships with those around them, fostering an environment of openness and respect.