White Hot Kiss
#1 of 3 in The Dark Elements Series
on Goodreads (87,323)
What’s inside...
Layla just wants to fit in at school and go on a date with Zayne, whom she's crushed on since forever. Trouble is, Zayne treats Layla like a sister--and Layla is a half demon, half gargoyle with abilities no one else possesses. And even though Zayne is a Warden, part of the race of gargoyles tasked with keeping humanity safe, Layla's kiss will kill anything with a soul--including him. Then she meets Roth--a demon who claims to know her secrets. Though Layla knows she should stay away, it's tough when that whole no-kissing thing isn't an issue. Trusting Roth could ruin her chances with Zayne, but as Layla discovers she's the reason for a violent demon uprising, kissing the enemy suddenly pales in comparison to the looming end of the world.
Character compass
Layla
Zayneb
Roth
Abbot
Zayne
Discussion points
How do you think Layla feels about being different from everyone else, and what can we learn from her experiences?
In what ways do Roth and Zayne influence Layla’s decisions? Discuss the importance of influences and choosing who we trust.
The book outlines themes of good versus evil. What are your thoughts on how these themes are explored through the characters?
Layla faces many challenges throughout the story. Can you think of a time when you faced a difficult challenge? How did you overcome it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their opinions about the characters' decisions, acknowledging there are no right or wrong answers but a space for personal reflection.
Use examples from the story to discuss real-life scenarios where similar themes of trust, friendship, and moral dilemmas may arise.
Highlight Layla’s resilience in adversity to inspire your child to share stories of their own persistence and courage.
Emphasize the importance of empathy by discussing how different characters might have felt during key events in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of self-discovery
Explanation: In 'White Hot Kiss', the protagonist Layla grapples with her dual heritage and innate powers, exploring themes of identity and self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their unique qualities and backgrounds, understanding that self-awareness is key to personal growth.
Example Lesson: Making difficult choices
Explanation: Throughout the book, Layla is faced with making choices that challenge her values and desires, teaching the significance of personal integrity.
Real-World Application: This lesson equips children with the ability to weigh decisions against their moral compass and societal norms in everyday conflicts.
Example Lesson: The power of friendship and trust
Explanation: Layla relies on her friends to navigate her supernatural challenges, underscoring the value of trust and camaraderie in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of building trustworthy relationships and supporting friends through tough times, fostering social and emotional development.
Example Lesson: Dealing with feelings of isolation
Explanation: Layla often feels isolated due to her unique circumstances, but learns to cope and find solidarity with others who care for her.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to find healthy ways to deal with feelings of loneliness or exclusion, and to seek support when needed.