Tristan Strong Keeps Punching: Tristan Strong
#3 of 3 in Tristan Strong Series
on Goodreads (1,470)
What’s inside...
The finale of Kwame Mbalia's trilogy, in which Tristan Strong faces off with his archenemy, King Cotton, once and for all. After reuniting with Ayanna, who is now in his world, Tristan travels up the Mississippi in pursuit of his archenemy, King Cotton. Along the way they encounter new haints who are dead set on preventing their progress north to Tristan's hometown of Chicago. It's going to take many Alkean friends, including the gods themselves, the black flames of the afokena gloves, and all of Tristan's inner strength to deliver justice once and for all.
Character compass
Tristan Strong
Anansi
High John
Gum Baby
John Henry
The Shamble Man
Discussion points
How do Tristan's adventures make you feel about handling challenges in your own life?
What did you learn about the importance of storytelling from Tristan's journey?
If you could have a magical power like Tristan, what would it be and why?
What are some ways Tristan shows courage, and how can you apply that to situations at school or with friends?
How do you think Tristan's friendships influence his actions and decisions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to draw parallels between their personal experiences and Tristan’s adventures to deepen their understanding and connection to the story. Ask open-ended questions that prompt your child to think critically about the characters' decisions and the outcomes. Discuss the cultural aspects and the folktales in the book, exploring their meanings together. Praise your child’s insights and interpretations to boost their confidence in expressing their thoughts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Tristan Strong faces numerous challenges but consistently demonstrates resilience by never giving up on his quest.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding that setbacks are natural, and persistence is key to overcoming difficulties in school or during extracurricular activities.
Example Lesson: Importance of cultural heritage
Explanation: The story integrates African American folklore, emphasizing the richness of Tristan’s cultural heritage and its impact on his identity.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to appreciate and explore their own family backgrounds and histories, fostering a sense of pride and identity.
Example Lesson: Empathy and friendship
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Tristan’s relationships grow stronger as he learns to understand and empathize with others' feelings and perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value friendships and empathize with peers, helping them build strong, supportive relationships in their community.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Tristan Strong encounters various fears but teaches the reader that bravery isn’t the absence of fear, but the ability to move forward despite it.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children face their own fears, whether it’s trying out for a sports team, participating in a school play, or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: The power of storytelling
Explanation: Tristan understands and harnesses the power of stories to change circumstances and convey significant cultural truths.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that their voices and stories are powerful and that they can use storytelling as a tool to express themselves and effect change.