Watcher
on Goodreads (10)
What’s inside...
Sixteen-year-old Porter Delancy has his future meticulously planned out, but his life takes an unexpected turn when a man he believes may be his father appears in his Toronto neighbourhood. As Porter searches for answers about his identity, he is met with more questions and confusion. Meanwhile, he is determined to escape the negativity and hopelessness that plagues his community, vowing not to let it turn him into the 'living dead.'
Age
12-15
Length
228 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the main character felt when they faced challenges? How would you feel in the same situation?
How did the characters' friendships change or grow throughout the story? Can you relate to any of these changes with your friendships?
What were some important choices the characters made? What would you have done differently, and why?
How does the setting influence the story? Can you imagine the story taking place somewhere else?
What lessons do you think the book is trying to teach us? How can we apply these lessons in our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book. Listen actively, showing that you value their opinions.
Draw parallels between the story and the child’s personal experiences. This helps in deepening the child's understanding and empathy.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to promote deeper thinking and conversation.
Cultivate an atmosphere that welcomes back-and-forth conversation, ensuring children know that their insights are appreciated and crucial.
Utilize predictions, asking what your child thinks might happen next or how they would have ended the story differently. This fosters creativity and critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: In 'Watcher,' the protagonist learns to understand and feel the emotions of others, portraying a deep sense of empathy towards the characters she interacts with.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize and respect the feelings and perspectives of their peers and family members, fostering healthier and more supportive relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Throughout the book, the main character faces various challenges but continues to persevere, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to persist in the face of difficulties whether in school tasks, sports, or personal goals, understanding that overcoming obstacles is part of growth.
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity
Explanation: The protagonist's curiosity leads her to discover important truths and learn significant lessons, reflecting the value of curious inquiry.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore their own questions about the world around them, leading to enhanced learning and critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Integrity
Explanation: Making honest choices is a recurring theme in 'Watcher', where the main character often chooses the harder right over the easier wrong.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of honesty in building trust and credibility in their everyday interactions and decisions.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The young protagonist frequently demonstrates courage, facing fears to do what she believes is right.
Real-World Application: This lesson can empower children to face their own fears and stand up for what they believe in, be it in small daily acts or significant decisions.