What Not to Do If You Turn Invisible
#1 of 6 in Ross Welford Series
on Goodreads (2,739)
What’s inside...
From the author of the unforgettable bestseller TIME TRAVELLING WITH A HAMSTER comes another surprising, beautiful and funny novel about a child who, by disappearing, will write herself into your heart forever. Turning invisible at it’s one way of curing your acne. But far more drastic than 13-year-old Ethel Leatherhead intended when she tried a combination of untested medicines and a sunbed. It’s fun at first, being invisible. And aided by her friend Boydy, she manages to keep her extraordinary ability secret. Or does she? When one day the invisibility fails to wear off, Ethel is thrown into a nightmare of lies and deception as she struggles to keep herself safe, to find the remedy that will make her seen again – and solve the mystery of her own birth.
Character compass
Ethel Leatherhead
Elliot Boyd
Gran
Discussion points
What would you do if you suddenly turned invisible? How would you use your invisibility to help others?
How does the main character handle the challenges they face while invisible? What can we learn from their actions?
Why do you think secrecy and trust are important themes in the book? How do the characters' relationships change when secrets are revealed?
In what ways do the characters grow or change throughout the story? Which character's journey did you find the most compelling and why?
How do the characters' experiences with invisibility help them understand themselves and others better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal story related to a theme in the book, such as a time you felt unnoticed or misunderstood. This opens up a channel for empathetic dialogue. Ask open-ended questions that relate the story's events or characters' decisions to your child's experiences or moral framework, helping them connect with the themes on a deeper level. Encourage them to imagine themselves in the story and consider different perspectives, enhancing critical thinking. Utilize pauses after each question to give your child time to think and express their thoughts fully, promoting thoughtful engagement. Reinforce positive messages from the book, such as the importance of honesty and self-acceptance, to help internalize these values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy and understanding.
Explanation: The protagonist, Ethel, while invisible discovers secrets about her peers and learns to understand the challenges and vulnerabilities they face.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more considerate and attentive to the feelings and situations of others around them, fostering a more empathetic community.
Example Lesson: The consequences of dishonesty.
Explanation: Throughout her adventures, Ethel learns that lying and hiding the truth can lead to complicated situations and mistrust from others.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of honesty and being forthcoming in their interactions, helping them build trustful relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage to face one's fears.
Explanation: Despite the risks and fears of being invisible, Ethel bravely navigates through her problems, demonstrating courage.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of confronting their fears and the benefits of doing so, which can aid in personal growth and overcoming obstacles in life.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance and the quest for identity.
Explanation: Ethel's journey represents a deeper search for identity and self-acceptance, learning to be comfortable with who she truly is.
Real-World Application: Promotes the message that self-acceptance is crucial in a child’s development and encourages them to embrace their unique qualities and differences.
Example Lesson: The impact of actions on others.
Explanation: The story unfolds the effects of Ethel's actions while invisible on her friends and family, illustrating the interconnectivity of actions and consequences.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to consider the consequences of their actions on others, encouraging thoughtful and responsible behavior.