Timeless (Timeless Series)
#1 of 2 in Prentice Hall Literature: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes Series
on Goodreads (10,317)
What’s inside...
When tragedy strikes Michele Windsor's world, she is forced to uproot her life and move across the country to New York City, to live with the wealthy, aristocratic grandparents she's never met. In their old Fifth Avenue mansion filled with a century's worth of family secrets, Michele discovers a diary that hurtles her back in time to the year 1910. There, in the midst of the glamorous Gilded Age, Michele meets the young man with striking blue eyes who has haunted her dreams all her life—a man she always wished was real, but never imagined could actually exist. And she finds herself falling for him, into an otherworldly, time-crossed romance. Michele is soon leading a double life, struggling to balance her contemporary high school world with her escapes into the past. But when she stumbles upon a terrible discovery, she is propelled on a race through history to save the boy she loves—a quest that will determine the fate of both of their lives.
Character compass
Michele Windsor
Philip Walker
Discussion points
How do you think Michele feels when she discovers her ability to time travel? Can you relate to her excitement or fear?
What did you learn about the different time periods Michele visits? Which era would you like to visit and why?
Michele meets various historical figures throughout her journeys. Who was your favorite and what would you ask them if you had the chance?
How do Michele's relationships with her friends and family change throughout the story? Have you ever had a friendship change over time?
What lessons do you think Michele learns by the end of the book? How do those lessons apply to your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare and contrast different time periods Michele visits with present day. This can provide a deeper understanding of history and societal changes.
Discuss the concept of time travel and ask your child how they would feel and react in a similar situation. Listen closely to their thoughts and feelings to foster empathy and imaginative thinking.
Invite your child to draw or write about a historical figure they found intriguing from the book. This activity can extend their engagement with the book’s content and themes.
Use Michele’s evolving relationships as a springboard to talk about friendships and family. Sharing personal stories can help strengthen your connection with your child.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to think about the morals and messages. Discuss how these lessons can be applied in everyday life to encourage personal growth.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience
Explanation: Throughout the 'Timeless' series, the protagonist faces numerous challenges and setbacks but continues to persevere and adapt. Their journey embodies resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges, whether in school or personal life, with a never-give-up attitude that encourages them to try again even after failures.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Characters in the series rely on each other's unique strengths and work together to overcome obstacles, showcasing the power of collaborative effort.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of cooperating with others and valuing diverse skills in group settings such as classrooms or playgrounds.
Example Lesson: Understanding and respect for different cultures
Explanation: The Timeless series takes readers on a journey through various eras and cultures, emphasizing understanding and respect for differences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by embracing multiculturalism and showing respect for peers from different backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: The significance of history and learning from the past
Explanation: As characters travel through time, historical lessons become crucial to the plot, underscoring the importance of learning from history.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to show interest in their own past and the history around them, which can help them make informed decisions and develop a sense of identity.