Turned (Book #1 in the Vampire Journals)
#1 of 12 in Vampire Journals Series
on Goodreads (14,186)
What’s inside...
TURNED is the first book in the bestselling Vampire Journals series by Morgan Rice. It follows 18-year-old Caitlin Paine, who is forced to move to a dangerous New York City high school. There, she meets Jonah, a new classmate, and starts to develop feelings for him. However, Caitlin soon discovers she is undergoing mysterious changes, developing superhuman strength and a sensitivity to light. Her search for answers leads her to a hidden vampire world beneath New York City, where she gets caught in a vampire war. She meets Caleb, a powerful vampire, who saves her and needs her help to find a legendary artifact. As they work together, Caitlin is torn between her feelings for Jonah and her forbidden love for Caleb, all while trying to discover the truth about her real father and navigate the dangers of the vampire world.
Character compass
Caitlin Paine
Jonah
Caleb
Kyle
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Caitlin to leave her old life behind and embark on a journey to find her true identity?
How do the relationships Caitlin forms impact her understanding of trust and friendship?
What lessons do you think Caitlin learns about courage and sacrifice throughout her adventures?
If you were in Caitlin's shoes, how would you handle the challenges she faces with the unknown elements of her past?
How do you think the setting of the story influences the mood and decisions of the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin with open-ended questions that allow your child to express their views freely. Encourage them to draw parallels between the story’s themes and their own experiences. This connection fosters deeper understanding and empathy. Highlight the transformative journey of the protagonist to discuss personal growth and resilience. Lastly, keep the tone light and engaging to make these discussions a delightful shared activity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Caitlin, showcases bravery as she navigates a world filled with vampires and unknown dangers.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and challenges with determination and bravery, whether it's trying out for a new sport or standing up for a friend.
Example Lesson: The value of self-discovery
Explanation: Throughout the book, Caitlin embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning about her unique powers and true identity.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to explore their own strengths and weaknesses, fostering a sense of self-awareness and personal growth.
Example Lesson: The importance of loyalty and trust
Explanation: Caitlin forms profound bonds with characters who support her quest, emphasizing the importance of trust and loyalty.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of building trustworthy relationships and being loyal friends in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Making ethical choices
Explanation: The protagonist faces several moral dilemmas, and her choices often reflect a strong ethical compass, despite the complexities of her world.
Real-World Application: This narrative provides a platform for children to think critically about right and wrong and encourages them to make principled decisions.