Uncanny
#3 in Reliquary Series
What’s inside...
In this dark and twisty psychological thriller, two sisters are entangled in a web of memory loss and mystery after one sister's fatal fall. Cora, equipped with a brain-computer interface, should remember the details of the night her stepsister, Hannah, died but finds her memories erased. Forced to work with an AI counselor amidst her self-destructive spiral, Cora uncovers disturbing truths about Hannah's death, the depths of human actions, and her own sanity. As she confronts her greatest fear, the line between reality and illusion blurs, leaving her to live or die by what she discovers.
Discussion points
How did the characters' emotions and actions in 'Uncanny' make you feel?
What do you think are the main themes of the story, and why are they important?
If you were in the character's position, how would you handle the challenges they faced?
What lessons can we learn from the characters about trust and facing fears?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book by relating it to their own experiences.
Discuss the moral dilemmas faced by the characters and ask your child what they would do differently.
Highlight the consequences of the characters' decisions to help your child understand cause and effect.
Use the story as a starting point to explore broader themes like ethics, friendship, and courage.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Uncanny', the protagonist faces numerous challenges and unsettling mysteries, demonstrating perseverance and courage throughout.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay determined and face their own challenges in school or in social settings with a positive attitude, understanding that obstacles are a part of life and can be overcome.
Example Lesson: The importance of trust
Explanation: Trust plays a crucial role in the plot of 'Uncanny', as characters must decide whom they can confide in and rely on during difficult times.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of building trust with family and friends, and the significance of being a trustworthy person themselves.
Example Lesson: Understanding and empathy
Explanation: As the story unfolds, characters learn more about each other's backgrounds and motives, which leads to greater understanding and empathy among them.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to appreciate the perspectives and feelings of others, aiding in the development of empathy and reducing conflicts.
Example Lesson: The consequences of actions
Explanation: Throughout 'Uncanny', the protagonist's decisions have direct impacts on the storyline, demonstrating the consequences — both good and bad — of her actions.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that their choices have effects on themselves and others, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful decision-making.