Time Villains
#1 of 2 in Time Villains Series
on Goodreads (454)
What’s inside...
Adventure, bloodthirsty pirates, and about the worst dinner guest of all time.
Javi Santiago is just a sandwich-obsessed Puerto Rican trying to host the ultimate dinner party and not fail sixth grade. When the annual "Any Three People to Dinner" homework assignment rolls around, Javi needs helps, so he pulls his best friend Wiki and his kid sister Brady into the effort. Only none of them predicted that the family's mysterious antique table would *actually* bring their storied guests to the meal. And who did they invite? Kid Mozart, the Earl of Sandwich, and...Blackbeard the Pirate. Whoops.
Before they can say "avast, ye maties," Blackbeard escapes and Javi's world does an awkward somersault. As the trio tries to avoid the bloodthirsty pirate, a few of their teachers come to their aid--teachers who are suspiciously out of place. But there's no time to think--Blackbeard is intent on summoning his pirate crew, so Javi may have to invite some even zanier figures to set things right again.
Character compass
Javi Santiago
Wiki Kim
Brady Santiago
Blackbeard
Discussion points
What would you do if you could invite any historical figure to dinner, like Javi in the book?
How do you think Javi feels when he meets these characters from the past, and how would you feel in his place?
What lessons do you think Javi learns from his adventures with the historical figures?
If you had a magical dinner table, what rules would you make for your guests?
How do the different characters from history contribute to Javi’s understanding of his world and himself?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Javi’s shoes to deepen their connection with his experiences.
Discuss the historical figures featured in the book, providing a little background to help contextualize their actions and decisions.
Pose hypothetical scenarios inspired by the book’s plot to stimulate creative and analytical thinking.
Connect the themes of the book to your child’s daily experiences, such as dealing with unexpected situations or learning from diverse perspectives.
Highlight Javi’s character development throughout the book to discuss the importance of growth and learning from one's experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Time Villains', characters must collaborate to solve mysteries and overcome challenges, demonstrating that teamwork is essential for success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working cooperatively in group projects at school or in team sports, learning to value each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical contexts
Explanation: The book incorporates historical figures and events, providing a narrative that encourages curiosity about history and its impact.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to explore history books or documentaries, fostering a deeper understanding of the world and how it has been shaped by the past.
Example Lesson: Responsibility for one’s actions
Explanation: Characters in the book face consequences for their actions, especially when meddling with time, highlighting the importance of thinking before acting.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of considering the consequences of their actions, which can guide them in making thoughtful decisions in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The protagonists often encounter setbacks but continue to persevere, teaching resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital for children to understand that setbacks are part of life and persistence is key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Ethics of using power
Explanation: The story explores the ethical implications of using time travel for personal gain, imparting lessons on the responsible use of power.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to think ethically about the use of personal and shared resources, promoting integrity in their actions.