Book Review Discussion Questions RR Provided by ThrivingFamily.com Table of Contents R My Name is Rachel ...... 3 Race for Freedom ...... 3 Raiders from the Sea ...... 4 The Raider’s Promise ...... 4 and Her Father ...... 4 Ramona and Her Mother ...... 5 ...... 5 Ramona Quimby, Age 8 ...... 6 Ramona the Brave ...... 6 ...... 7 Ramona’s World ...... 7 Ransom’s Mark: A Story Based on the Life of the Pioneer Olive Oatman ...... 8 Reached ...... 8 The Red Pyramid ...... 9 Redwall ...... 9 Remarkable ...... 10 Replication: The Jason Experiment . . . 10 Requiem ...... 10 The Reveal ...... 11 Revolution ...... 11 Rilla of Ingleside ...... 11 Revolutionary War on Wednesday . . . 12 The Ring of Rocamadour . . . . . 12 Roadside Assistance ...... 12 Robopocalypse ...... 13 Rock Harbor Search and Rescue . . . . 13 Rodrick Rules ...... 14 Roland Wright Future Knight . . . . 14 Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry . . . . 14 Romeo and Juliet ...... 15 The Ruins of Gorlan ...... 15

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R My Name is Rachel were in need? What would make you reluctant to ask for help from This historical some people? juvenile fiction Race for Freedom This historical fic- by Patricia Reilly 5 . The apostle Paul wrote in Giff is published tion novel by Lois Philippians 3:13-14: “But one Walfrid Johnson is by Wendy Lamb thing I do: Forgetting what is Books, an imprint the second in the behind and straining toward “Freedom Seekers” of Random House what is ahead, I press on toward Children’s Books. series published by the goal to win the prize for Moody Publishers, R My Name is which God has called me heav- Rachel is written for ages 9 and up. River North enward in Christ Jesus ”. How Division. This does this compare to the advice Search for a review of this book book is written for kids ages 9 to 16. Pop and Mr . Appleby give Rachel for parents at pluggedin.com/ when they only tell her to “look Search for a review of this book book-reviews. forward” as a means of giving her for parents at pluggedin.com/ hope for the future? From where If your children have read this book, book-reviews. does our hope come? In whom consider talking about the story can we best place our trust? using these discussion questions: If your children have read this book, consider talking about the story 1 . How does Rachel feel when she 6 . While Rachel’s father is away, she using these discussion questions: learns she has to leave the fami- finds and reads a letter he had ly’s apartment in the city? What started to Miss Mitzi . Later she 1 . What are some historical facts or is most devastating to her? What shows it to Miss Mitzi . Why is places you learned about in this does she come to love about the doing this wrong? What should story? What was the most inter- farmhouse? What events shape she have done? esting to you? this change in her attitude? 7 . Rachel breaks into the closed 2 . What does Caleb mean when 2 . How well do you think you’d do schoolhouse and “borrows” a few he tells Libby her pa has a good if you were left on your own for a books to read, but later returns name? What does it take to have long time? How might you take them . Is it really “borrowing” a good name? How can you live care of younger siblings if you when someone takes some- so that you can be thought of had money? How might you take thing without asking the owner? having a good name? What did Rachel really do? What care of them if you didn’t have 3 . What does Pa tell Libby about should she have done? money? courage? Where does it come 3 . How do the drawings Rachel sees 8 . An ongoing sibling rivalry exists from? In what areas of your life in the house, barn and on rocks between Rachel and Cassie . They do you need to be more coura- encourage her? Why did Anton generally manage to make things geous? What do you need to do draw them? What kinds of pic- right with each other, though to be more courageous in these tures inspire you? some mean thoughts and words areas? occur . How do you and your sib- 4 . Why do Libby’s feelings of friend- 4 . Why does Rachel believe she lings treat each other? How can ship for Elsa change? Who have can’t ask for help? Who does you keep from competing with you been jealous of? How has help her? What would have hap- each other? How can you treat jealousy hurt you or someone pened if Mrs . Freeman hadn’t each other with respect if you you know? helped Rachel? Is Cassie right to disagree with each other? ask Miss Mitzi for help? Whom might you ask for help if you

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3 5 . Think about Jordan, Elsa and 3 . Discuss how easy it is to think Even though God forgave him, Libby . How do people treat each that you are alone or that no one what does he need to do from of them differently based on their is watching . What kinds of things those he has wronged? race or wealth? How are people can you do to remind yourself of from different races and social God’s presence? 3 . When Brother Cronan forgives classes looked upon in our soci- him on behalf of the Irish peo- ety today? How does God feel 4 . The O’Toole family makes prepa- ple, how does Mikkel feel? Have about people of different skin col- rations for the Viking attack . you ever felt that type of forgive- ors or social classes? They had to think ahead about ness? How does Mikkel want to what might happen . How can make things right? How does Christians be spiritually prepared he plan to undo the evil he has for an attack from the Enemy? done? What have you ever been forgiven for? Is there anything in Raiders from the Sea 5 . What types of preparations can This first histori- your life for which you need to you do to make sure that you are cal fiction book in make restitution? ready? the “Viking Quest” 4 . What have Aiden and Mam series by Lois O’Toole been praying for since Walfrid Johnson Mikkel raided their country- is published by side? How can you trust that God Moody Publishers. The Raider’s Promise This historical fic- knows His plans for you? Are Raiders From the tion book is the you willing to submit your life to Sea is written for fifth in the “Viking Him even when things do not go kids ages 10 to 14. Quest” series your way? Search for a review of this book by Lois Walfrid 5 . How difficult is it for Bree’s par- for parents at pluggedin.com/ Johnson and is pub- ents to pray for the man who has book-reviews. lished by Moody Publishers. The caused the hurt in their family? Are you willing to pray for your If your children have read this book, Raider’s Promise is enemies? Are you willing to trust consider talking about the story written for kids ages 10 to 14. that God is in control even when using these discussion questions: Search for a review of this book you do not see a happy ending 1 . Raiders from the Sea gives a for parents at pluggedin.com/ today? wonderful example of how the book-reviews. choices of one person affect oth- ers . Mikkel’s desire for fortune If your children have read this book, is greater than his empathy for consider talking about the story Ramona and Her others . Several times in the story, using these discussion questions: Bree makes a remark about miss- Father 1 . Mikkel has found a new free- ing her home and her family . This humor- dom in his walk with God . Why These comments seem to take ous book is not does Mikkel want a new begin- Mikkel by surprise, as if it never in a series but is ning with Bree? What does he do occurred to him that his prisoner the fourth book to prove this to her? How does had a life and family . Discuss in a collection Bree react? How do you react how your decisions affect others . of eight that fea- when someone you know is try- ture Ramona 2 . Another theme throughout the ing to change for the good? Why Quimby as the book is that God is always with is it difficult to change your views main character. you, regardless of your situation . about those you know who say Written by , the If God were a physical being and they have changed? What can Ramona Collection is published you truly believed He was with you do to help instead of hinder by HarperTrophy, which is an you day and night, how might people in their Christian growth? imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. you act differently? Ramona and Her Father is written 2 . With his newfound faith, how for kids ages 8 to 12. does Mikkel view his sinful past?

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4 Search for a review of this book pageant? Does she feel different 4 . Why isn’t the stew ready when for parents at pluggedin.com/ when she sees Beezus dressed as the Quimby family comes home book-reviews. Mary? What kind of play have from their long day? Who is you been in at school or church? responsible for making dinner at If your children have read this book, How did it feel to dress up like our house? What was the worst consider talking about the story someone or something else? dinner our family has ever had? using these discussion questions: Would you ever want to do this again? 5 . Ramona thinks parents should 1 . Do you agree with Ramona’s be cheerful and loving all the father that the Quimbys are a time, never sick and never tired . happy family? How can you be Is this possible? Is it true that a happy family even when you Ramona and Her people are grumpier when they have problems? How would you are tired? Are you? Tell about describe “a happy family”? Mother a time when you were grumpy This humorous 2 . Why does Ramona change the because you were tired . book is not in a items on her Christmas wish series but is the 6 . How does Beezus feel when she list after her father loses his job? fifth in a collection spends her own allowance to get What, if anything, has caused of eight books that her hair cut at a salon? Have you you to stop and think about how feature Ramona ever bought something with your much something costs? What, if Quimby as the own money and wish you hadn’t anything, has made you change main character. afterward? your mind about something you Written by Beverly wanted because it cost too much? 7 . What does Mr . Quimby mean Cleary, the Ramona Collection is when he says the world doesn’t published by HarperTrophy, which 3 . Ramona has lots of ideas about revolve around Ramona? What is an imprint of HarperCollins what she would do with a mil- does he want her to learn? lion dollars—buying a cuckoo Publishers. Ramona and Her Mother clock for every room in the is written for kids ages 8 to 12. 8 . Why does Ramona’s mother help house and going to Disneyland . pack a suitcase when Ramona Search for a review of this book What would you do if you had decides to run away? Have you for parents at pluggedin.com/ a million dollars? Do you think ever wanted to run away from book-reviews. having more money makes peo- our home? Why? What made you ple happier? change your mind? If your children have read this book, 4 . Why do try consider talking about the story 9 . What kinds of things does to get their father to stop smok- using these discussion questions: Ramona remember when she ing? What have others tried to 1 . What does Willa Jean do that realizes how much her mother stop you from doing for your reminds one of the guests of loves her? What are some things own good? What have you tried Ramona? How does Ramona feel that I do [or your mother does] to stop others from doing for when she hears this? Does her for you that make you feel loved? their own good? mother agree or disagree?

5 . How does Ramona feel when 2 . Why does Ramona get frustrated she comes home from school when she is sewing with her Ramona Forever and finds the house locked? Tell mother? Tell about a time when This humorous about a time when you were you spent time with one of us book is not in a locked out of your house . Did [your mother or father] . Was that series but is in a you feel the same way Ramona time ever interrupted? How did collection of eight did? What did you do while you the interruption make you feel? books that feature were waiting for someone to Ramona Quimby come home and let you in? 3 . Why is Ramona confused when as the main char- Mrs . Rudge says there is no such acter. Written by 6 . Why is Ramona surprised when word as can’t? Is Mrs . Rudge right Beverly Cleary, her sister is chosen to play the or wrong? What did Mrs . Rudge the Ramona Collection is published part of Mary in the Christmas mean?

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5 by HarperTrophy, which is an nuisance and a show-off? Should imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. teachers talk with each other Ramona Forever is written for kids Ramona Quimby, Age about their students? How does ages 8 to 12. Ramona feel after she tells her 8 teacher what she heard? Search for a review of this book This humorous for parents at pluggedin.com/ book is not in a 5 . How does Ramona know that book-reviews. series but is in her parents are concerned about a collection of their family’s future? Have you If your children have read this book, eight books with ever heard your mother and consider talking about the story Ramona Quimby father talking about grown-up using these discussion questions: as the main char- things when they think you’re acter. Written by 1 . When Ramona touches her not listening? Beverly Cleary, mother’s belly and feels the baby the Ramona Collection is pub- 6 . Why did the mysterious stranger kick, she calls it a miracle . Why lished by HarperTrophy, which is an pay for the Quimbys’ meal? Have do you think she uses that word? imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. you ever done something nice for Are you as curious as Ramona is Ramona Quimby, Age 8 is written for someone you didn’t know? How about babies? kids ages 8 to 12. did you feel afterward? 2 . Why does Ramona ask her sis- Search for a review of this book ter to put their dead cat into a for parents at pluggedin.com/ cardboard box instead of doing it book-reviews. herself? Have you ever had a pet Ramona the Brave die? Did you have a funeral after- This humorous If your children have read this book, ward, like Ramona and Beezus, book is not in a consider talking about the story or did you do something else to series but is the using these discussion questions: remember your pet? second in a col- 1 . Ramona finds forgiveness lection of eight 3 . Why are Ramona and her sis- difficult when her mother acci- books that fea- ter worried when their father dentally puts a raw egg instead ture Ramona can’t find a teaching job? Have of a hardboiled one in her lunch . Quimby as the you ever had to move to another Has your mother (or I) ever done main charac- city because one of your parents something that you needed to ter. Written by Beverly Cleary, the changed jobs? forgive her (or me) for? Was for- Ramona Collection is published giving easy or hard to do? by HarperTrophy, which is an 4 . Did Ramona do the right imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. thing when she disobeyed Mrs . 2 . Why did Mrs . Quimby serve Ramona the Brave is written for kids Kemp and crawled under Aunt tongue instead of roast beef to ages 8 to 12. Beatrice’s dress to retrieve the the family? Have you ever been wedding ring? What would you served something that you didn’t Search for a review of this book have done if you were Ramona? like? What is the worst thing you for parents at pluggedin.com/ were ever served? What is the book-reviews. 5 . How does Ramona feel when she best thing? How do you handle isn’t allowed into the hospital both situations? If your children have read this book, to see her baby sister? What are consider talking about the story some things that you aren’t old 3 . Why do Mr . and Mrs . Quimby using these discussion questions: enough to do? ask Ramona and her sister to 1 . Why did the author title this cook dinner for the family? Is book Ramona the Brave? Can this a fair consequence for the you remember some of the brave way they were acting? What do things that Ramona does at they learn from cooking dinner home and at school? When was together? the last time you felt brave? 4 . How does Ramona feel when she overhears Miss Whaley call her a

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6 2 . When the boys on the play- Search for a review of this book ground are teasing Beezus, why for parents at pluggedin.com/ does Ramona tell them not to book-reviews. Ramona’s World take the Lord’s name in vain? This humorous What does that mean? Have If your children have read this book, book is not in a you ever tried to do something consider talking about the story series but is the nice for someone and have been using these discussion questions: eighth in a col- misunderstood? 1 . Why does Ramona’s sister call lection of eight her a “pest”? Has anyone ever books that fea- 3 . Why are Ramona and her sis- ture Ramona ter so glad that their parents are called you a name? How did it make you feel? Quimby as the building an extra bedroom onto main charac- the house? What is the best thing 2 . Why does Ramona think Miss ter. Written by Beverly Cleary, the about sharing? What is the hard- Binney is going to give her a Ramona Collection is published est thing? present? Can you remember a by HarperTrophy, which is an 4 . Why is Ramona angry with time that you were expecting imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. Susan as they are making paper something to happen and were Ramona’s World is written for kids owls? Have you ever felt that disappointed when it didn’t? ages 8 to 12. someone was copying your ideas? 3 . How does Ramona feel when Search for a review of this book What did you do? the children laugh at her during for parents at pluggedin.com/ 5 . On the first night that Ramona show-and-tell? Why do they stop book-reviews. sleeps in her new bedroom, how laughing when Miss Binney tells does she feel? Have you ever got- them to say “Chevrolet”? Has If your children have read this book, ten something that you asked for your teacher ever said or done consider talking about the story and then were surprised that it something that made you feel using these discussion questions: wasn’t what you thought it would that she really understood you? 1 . Sometimes Ramona feels that be? 4 . Why does Ramona want to everyone gets more attention than she does . Have you ever 6 . Why does Ramona hide her pull on Susan’s curls? Is Miss Binney being fair when she sends felt that way? What helped you progress report in a drawer? How understand that you don’t have does Mrs . Quimby respond when Ramona home after pulling Susan’s curls? to compete for your parents’ or Ramona says that her parents teacher’s attention? What helped love Beezus more than they love 5 . Why does Ramona hide behind Ramona understand this? her? Have you ever felt this way? the trashcans? Have you ever had a substitute teacher? How was 2 . What surprises Ramona about she different from your regular Daisy’s family? Whose house teacher? have you spent time at? How are Ramona the Pest your friend’s family, house and This humorous 6 . How do the boys feel when rules different from ours? What book is not in a Ramona wraps the worm is similar about your friend’s series but is the around her finger and says she is family and ours? first in a collec- engaged? Do you think she will tion of eight books marry ? 3 . What does Ramona do to look with Ramona nice for her school picture? What Quimby as the 7 . Why is Ramona afraid behind went wrong? Think about a time main character. her Halloween mask? Will any- you had your picture taken at Written by Beverly one know she is behind it? Have school . How did you decide what Cleary, the Ramona Collection is you ever worn a mask? How did to wear? Were you happy with published by HarperTrophy, which it make you feel? the way the photo turned out? is an imprint of HarperCollins Explain . Publishers. Ramona the Pest is writ- 4 . How does Ramona feel when ten for kids ages 8 to 12. Yard Ape writes a note to her on

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7 Valentine’s Day? What do you makes Himself known so that no prays for God to help her find and your friends do in school to man has an excuse . How does berries, which He does . Others celebrate Valentine’s Day? How this relate to Topeka and her con- consider her find to be a mira- do you let your friends know that viction to find the Oatman girls? cle . Later, the chief’s wife entrusts they are special to you? a plot of land to Olive and Mary 2 . Read Proverbs 31 and compare Ann to tend for food . Think 5 . Why do Ramona and Daisy this woman to Mrs . Oatman . about the story of Joseph, who write a letter to the owner of the Now consider Olive at the end was also used to help feed people ad in the newspaper? Have you of the story . In what ways is she who took him captive . What par- ever written a letter to, emailed like—and not like—her mother? allels can you draw between the or texted someone you didn’t Is Olive on her way to becoming two, and how do their stories glo- know? Explain . Did you receive a a Proverbs 31 woman? rify God? response, as Ramona did? 3 . Mr . Oatman and Lorenzo are 8 . The Bible tells us to feed the hun- 6 . Why does Ramona want to take strong men in the family, but gry, clothe the poor and bring care of Clawed? Have you ever they have different personalities . water to the thirsty . List the peo- been paid to take care of some- What are their godly qualities? ple in the story who did those one else’s pet? How was watching Would you want them in your things . Are you surprised by the a pet easy? How was it difficult? family? diversity of their backgrounds? What can you learn from this? 4 . In I Corinthians 12 and 14, we can read about spiritual gifts . Mr . 9 . At the end of the story, Topeka Ransom’s Mark: A Oatman seems to have had the encourages Olive to remember gift of discernment; Mrs . Oatman God’s love for her every time she Story Based on the seems to have had the gift of sees her tattoo—the mark of her Life of the Pioneer exhortation . What gift or gifts do ransom . Is there a visual cue you you see in Olive by the end of the can use during your everyday life Olive Oatman story? to remind you that God loves This book is in the you and sent His son to be your 5 . When her faith is shaken, Olive “Daughters of Faith” substitution and your ransom? series by Wendy is encouraged by Topeka to recall Lawton and is all of God’s protection over her 10 . Psalm 18 is close to Olive’s heart . published by in the past . By remembering spe- Read it all the way through and Moody Publishers. cific times when God revealed note the comments and imagery Ransom’s Mark is His faithfulness, Olive is able about being a captive who has written for kids to grow her faith in the pres- been delivered from strong ene- ages 8 to 12. ent . What experiences in your mies . Is Olive’s story one of exile? past do you need to remember to Why, or why not? How might she Note: If parents pursue addi- help you be more faithful in the find strength in the stories of bib- tional study, they will learn that the present? lical captives? Oatmans were a Mormon family. 6 . When Olive’s fate is in the hands Search for a review of this book of the Mojave leaders, who must for parents at pluggedin.com/ decide if she can return to the white men, she prays for them to Reached book-reviews. This dystopian come to the right decision . Do romance trilogy you sometimes rely too much on If your children have read this book, is the third in the trying to talk someone into your consider talking about the story “Matched” series way of thinking, or do you make using these discussion questions: written by Ally it a matter of prayer and ask God Condie and is pub- 1 . Topeka and Olive talk about their to guide the wisdom of those in lished by Dutton views on God, and Olive is sur- authority over you? prised that God was able to use Books, a division Topeka to rescue her and her sis- 7 . During the drought and famine of Penguin Group. ter . Romans 1:20 says that God among the Mojave people, Olive Reached is written for ages 12 and up.

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8 Search for a review of this book Search for a review of this book would it affect you if your actions for parents at pluggedin.com/ for parents at pluggedin.com/ led to the death of someone else? book-reviews. book-reviews.

If your children have read this book, If your children have read this book, consider talking about the story consider talking about the story Redwall using these discussion questions: using these discussion questions: This first adven- 1 . Indie and Ky hear from the Pilot 1 . Why does Sadie feel aban- ture book in the that the Rising chose them, even doned by her father? How does “Redwall” series before they joined . Look up John this affect her relationship with by Brian Jacques 15:16 in the Bible . Talk about Carter? What misconceptions do is published by how the Lord chose us and the Sadie and Carter hold about each Puffin Books, mission He has given us . other’s lives, and how do they an imprint of resolve these issues? Have you Penguin Group 2 . Xander realizes that Cassia’s love ever been treated differently than and is written for will mean more if she were to one of your siblings? How did kids ages 8 to 12. choose to love him rather than this make you feel? have the Society choose him for Search for a review of this book her . How is this like the kind of 2 . Uncle Amos says that Egyptian for parents at pluggedin.com/ love God desires from us? How gods don’t represent the forces book-reviews. does free will factor into our love of good and evil, but of order for God? and chaos . How does this differ If your children have read this book, from the God of the Bible? How consider talking about the story 3 . Ky mistakenly says that pray- would Christianity be different using these discussion questions: ing was when people would say if we believed that order were 1 . Matthias believes he was born aloud what they wanted and the highest good? When have to fulfill a purpose . What is your hope someone would hear them . you experienced circumstances purpose, or how can you dis- Do you agree or disagree with that were orderly but not good? cover it? Ky? Explain . How would you When have you been in a chaotic define prayer? environment that wasn’t evil? 2 . How is Redwall like the story of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 4 . What definition would you give 3 . Throughout the story, Egyptian 17)? for the Pilot? What character gods possess animals and people . traits make a good leader? How How is this possession similar to 3 . Cluny seems to have no regard do you determine whom you can demon possession as described for the lives of others . Where do trust as a leader? in the Bible? you see that sort of behavior in our society? 4 . Sadie and Carter meet their par- ents in the Hall of Judgment . 4 . In what ways does Cluny’s The Red Pyramid There, Anubis weighs the hearts unkind behavior toward others This fantasy book of the deceased . Ammit the end up hurting him? by Rick Riordan Devourer eats the hearts of the is the first in the wicked . Compare the Egyptian “Kane Chronicles” vision of the afterlife to what the series and is Bible teaches . published by Disney-Hyperion, 5 . Sadie’s parents make choices that a division of the lead to their deaths . How would Disney Book you feel if your parents sacrificed Group. The Red Pyramid is written their lives for something they for kids ages 10 and up. believed to be necessary? When Sadie pronounces Set’s name, the red pyramid collapses and her father is killed . Is Sadie respon- sible for her father’s death? How

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9 someone promised to reward you What does Abby learn from him for the information? about how to behave like Jesus? Remarkable To whom does Martyr show This contempo- compassion? rary fantasy is written by Lizzie Replication: The Jason 5 . What are Abby’s views on dating? K. Foley and pub- Are her methods (wearing lit- lished by Dial Experiment tle make-up, not studying alone Books for Young This science with a boy, etc .) wise or sim- Readers, a division fiction book by ply old-fashioned? Explain your of Penguin Group. Jill Williamson answer . What safeguards do you Remarkable is is published have in place to keep yourself out written for ages 9 to 12. by ZonderKids, of compromising situations with a division of members of the opposite sex? Search for a review of this book Zondervan, a for parents at pluggedin.com/ HarperCollins 6 . What role does “purpose” play in this book? Do you agree with book-reviews. company, and is written for kids ages 13 to 18. Abby that God has a purpose for If your children have read this book, each of us? What do you think consider talking about the story Search for a review of this book your purpose might be? using these discussion questions: for parents at pluggedin.com/ book-reviews. 1 . How would you feel if you were the only ordinary person in a If your children have read this book, Requiem family or town of remarkable consider talking about the story This science people? What are Jane’s talents using these discussion questions: fiction/romance and gifts? What talents or gifts do book by Lauren you have? 1 . Why does Abby have a prob- lem with human cloning? Why Oliver is the third 2 . Would you rather be around Jane is embryonic stem cell research in the “Delirium” or another character from this such a hot issue for characters in series and is book? Explain why . How should this book? What do various char- published by gifts and talents be used? What acters believe about this type of HarperCollins. is one good thing about using testing? What is your opinion of Requiem is written your gifts to help others? What these practices, and why? for kids ages 14 and up. happens when people use their 2 . If this story were true, should Search for a review of this book talents only for their own good? for parents at pluggedin.com/ Do you like being around peo- the Jasons be considered human? book-reviews. ple who are only concerned Explain your answer . about how well they do a partic- 3 . What happens that makes Abby If your children have read this book, ular thing? Explain . How can you concerned she is not setting a consider talking about the story use your gifts and talents to serve good Christian example for her using these discussion questions: others? father? Do you think her argu- 1 . At the end of the story, Lena 3 . Why does Ysquibel hide his true mentative behavior toward her advises readers to take down the identity? Do you think he was father is justified, or does it harm walls in their lives . She infers that happier being a pirate at sea or her Christian witness? Explain behind the safety of a wall, peo- being a great composer? What your answer . In what ways does ple may never know bad things, do you think would make him your behavior toward friends, but they won’t find heaven, either . happy in the future? teachers, siblings or parents What does that statement mean demonstrate (or fail to convey) to you? Have you built any “walls” 4 . What would you do if you uncov- your beliefs? in your life? Should they be torn ered a secret about somebody down? Explain . famous? What would you do if 4 . Why is Martyr’s name so appro- priate for him? What are some of the sacrificial things he does?

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10 2 . Hana’s jealousy led her to turn 3 . Why did Gretchen decide to kill 3 . Both Alex and Andi were drawn her friends over to the regula- herself? Have you ever felt that to risk their own lives to bring tors . How has jealously affected way? Who is someone you could comfort to a dying child . Is there your friendships? How could talk to if you ever feel that way? any social injustice you feel par- the situation have been handled ticularly moved by? What things differently? 4 . What does David, Lori’s dad, could you do to show God’s love struggle with? How does the to the world? 3 . After Alex leaves, Lena realizes world view pornography? What that he sacrificed himself to keep do you believe about pornog- 4 . Andi’s guilt led her to con- her safe . Lena also realizes the raphy? Is it something you template suicide on several sacrifices her mother made for struggle with? How does pornog- occasions . What would you do if her . Have you ever sacrificed for raphy change the way people see you thought a friend was think- someone else? Has anyone ever things? ing about killing herself? Whom sacrificed for you? What was the could you call for help? situation? What does the Bible say about true sacrifice? Revolution 4 . Fred is abusive to Hana . What This mix of a con- Rilla of Ingleside does the Bible say about how a temporary and This histori- husband should treat his wife? historical drama cal novel is the is written by eighth book in the Jennifer Donnelly “Anne of Green and published by Gables” series by The Reveal Delacorte Press. L. M. Montgomery This coming-of- Revolution is writ- and is pub- age book is the ten for ages 14 and lished by Starfire, fourth in the up. an imprint of “Becoming Beka” Random House Children’s Books. series by Sarah Search for a review of this book This book is written for kids ages 12 Anne Sumpolec for parents at pluggedin.com/ and up. and is pub- book-reviews. lished by Moody Search for a review of this book Publishers. The If your children have read this book, for parents at pluggedin.com/ Reveal is written for kids ages 13 to consider talking about the story book-reviews. 18. using these discussion questions: If your children have read this book, Search for a review of this book 1 . Andi has difficulty letting anyone close to her . How might the death consider talking about the story for parents at pluggedin.com/ using these discussion questions: book-reviews. of Truman have contributed to this? How might her home life 1 . How does responsibility for If your children have read this book, before his death have contributed another life help Rilla mature? consider talking about the story to it? What might her relation- What responsibilities and experi- using these discussion questions: ship have been with her parents if ences have helped you grow up? Truman had lived? 1 . Mark, Beka and Josh have differ- 2 . What world events impacted ent ideas about what is physically 2 . What have you done that has Rilla’s life? What world events appropriate . What does Mark made you feel guilty? Were you impact your life? believe? What does Beka believe? able to find some way to allevi- What does Josh believe? What do ate your guilt? If so, what? If not, 3 . How can you honor soldiers? you believe? perhaps reading Psalm 103:8-12 How can you honor wounded would help . Describe the nega- soldiers? How did Rilla honor 2 . Do you know people who think tive effect guilt had on Andi . She them? like Mark? Beka? Josh? What jokes about Jesus healing bro- 4 . Who are some of the people in were the consequences of their ken people . How could He have this story who were afraid? How actions? helped her? did they overcome their fears?

The age range reflects readability and not necessarily content appropriateness . Search for a review of this book for parents at PluggedIn .com/book-reviews .

11 What helps you overcome your choices made by the adults in this fears? book might not be the best? In The Ring of what way is a young person in this book a role model? How is Rocamadour she a good or poor example? Revolutionary War on This mystery by Michael D. Beil 6 . How does the author incorporate Wednesday is the first book literature, math and other sub- This fantasy adven- in “The Red Blazer jects into the plot of this book? ture novel by Mary Girls” series and What lesson does Margaret Pope Osborne is is published by learn, partly because of the Great the 22nd book in Knopf Books for Expectations scene the girls the “Magic Tree Young Readers, act out, that helps her develop House” series and an imprint of a closer relationship with her is published by Random House Children’s Books. grandmother? In what ways can Random House. This book is written for kids ages 8 literature and math help you out- Revolutionary to 12. side of school? How might these This book is written for kids ages 5 subjects help you as you grow to 8. Search for a review of this book older? for parents at pluggedin.com/ Search for a review of this book book-reviews. 7 . In the process of their investi- for parents at pluggedin.com/ gation, do the girls play by the book-reviews. If your children have read this book, rules? What do the girls do consider talking about the story that may have been disrespect- If your children have read this book, using these discussion questions: ful, dangerous or illegal in their consider talking about the story 1 . If you had a ring that could grant search for the ring? Are there using these discussion questions: you any wish, what would you other ways they could have han- 1 . On which special holiday does wish for? Why? dled these situations, instead of the patriot’s secret mission take lying, breaking into the church, place? Why don’t the soldiers 2 . What conclusions does Sophie etc .? What would you have done give up fighting for freedom, jump to regarding Leigh Ann? in their place? even though they want to be How does she treat Leigh Ann home for Christmas? Talk about and Raf as a result? Have you a time when doing the right ever been sad or angry about thing was difficult for you . Was it something, only to learn later Roadside Assistance worth doing the right thing, even that you had misjudged the situa- This contemporary when it was hard to do? tion? What happened? Christian, com- ing-of-age book 2 . Why doesn’t Annie want to leave 3 . How much do Sophie and her by Amy Clipston the soldiers? Is there someone friends know about their faith? is published by you wish you could help? How What are some ways people’s Zondervan. This can you help someone, even if lives can show their commitment book is written for you’re not physically near them? to Christ? ages 13 to 16.

3 . What does Morgan ask the kids 4 . How often do the girls use God’s Search for a review to find and why? How can words name in vain? Why do they do of this book for parents at pluggedin. be powerful? How have someone this? Why do people use pro- com/book-reviews. else’s words helped you or hurt fanity? What does the Bible say you? How can your words help or about God’s name and how it If your children have read this book, hurt someone? should be used? consider talking about the story using these discussion questions: 5 . Which adult characters are the best role models for the girls? 1 . How Emily experiences grief is Why? Which are the worst? What different from how her father makes them the worst? Which processes his grief . What are

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12 some of these differences? Have 3 . Initially, Lurker is completely you known anyone who has had self-absorbed with his pranks a profound loss? What are some Robopocalypse and his computer-hacking abil- things you might do to help This science fiction ities . What incident contributes someone through this difficult book by Daniel H. to Lurker becoming less self- time? Wilson was origi- ish? Why does Lurker say that nally published by his time as a prankster made him 2 . This story is partly about a teen- Doubleday, a divi- owe a debt to other people? How age girl who feels alone and as sion of Random does Lurker ultimately serve if she doesn’t fit in with her new House Inc. humanity with his talents? environment . How have you Robopocalypse is experienced the feeling of being written for adults 4 . Why does Cormac Wallace try to on the outside? How did you but attracts the interest of kids ages keep his older brother, Jack, from adjust? 14 years and up. helping people during the chaos of the Zero Hour attacks? How 3 . Many times, appearances are Search for a review of this book do the brothers’ ideas about her- what validate a person’s worth . for parents at pluggedin.com/ oism differ? When robots slowly Chelsea tells Emily that Zander book-reviews. kill Tiberius, why does Cormac won’t be able to resist her when warn Jack against helping their he sees her dressed up and wear- If your children have read this book, fellow soldier? What reason does ing makeup . From where does consider talking about the story Jack give for helping Tiberius, our worth come? using these discussion questions: even knowing that offering aid could result in his own death? 4 . Emily misjudged her cousin 1 . Why is Archos intent on destroy- Whitney, thinking she was not a ing humanity when he says that 5 . Why does Cormac say that true friend . What led Emily to living things are incredibly valu- human beings have become a think that Whitney was shallow? able? Archos is unable to recreate better species for having fought What could Whitney have done another version of himself; why the robot war? In what ways differently that would have better is he frustrated by his inability to can struggling against adversity conveyed her concern for Emily? create life? In the real world, how improve a person’s life? After the does God create new life? Can war is over, what is Cormac’s out- 5 . Zander doesn’t want to be a doc- human beings invent life from look on life? tor . How does he cope with his machines? father’s unwillingness to recog- nize their differences? Do you 2 . Why do the members of the think he respectfully manages Osage Nation decide to let in ref- his relationship with his father? ugees from the robots? What Rock Harbor Search What were Zander’s goals regard- problems arise within the Grey and Rescue ing studies beyond high school? Horse reservation because of the This mystery Was his father’s assessment of refugees they harbor? How does adventure book auto mechanics an accurate one Lonnie Wayne Blanton deal with by Colleen Coble (“a good hobby but not some- Lark Iron Cloud, a young man is the first in the thing to pursue full time”)? What accused of stealing food from “Rock Harbor” would you like to do as a career? the community? What difficul- series for kids and What are the obstacles in your ties would arise if Lonnie Wayne is published by path? simply imprisoned Lark, and Thomas Nelson. what would happen if he failed Rock Harbor 6 . Would you be comfortable to punish Lark in any way? Why Search and Rescue is written for kids talking with your pastor or youth does Lonnie Wayne say that Lark ages 7 to 12. leader about your problems? is not a warrior but a gangster? How does Lonnie Wayne’s guid- Search for a review of this book 7 . Talk about some blessings in your ance help Lark become a tribal for parents at pluggedin.com/ life that perhaps you had not leader? book-reviews. considered earlier as blessings .

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13 If your children have read this book, boring, what should he do when 1 . Why does Roland want to be a consider talking about the story they talk to him about them? knight? What advice does he get using these discussion questions: What should you do when some- from Sir Gallawood? Give exam- 1 . How did Mrs . Dancer use Emily one talks about something that ples of some situations where he to sell more jewelry? Why must you aren’t interested in hearing? follows the knight’s advice . Why Emily forgive Mrs . Dancer? is it sometimes difficult for him 2 . What was Rowley and Greg’s to do the right thing? Who in Describe a time when you had to code? How did it work for them? forgive someone who had hurt your life gives you good advice? Have you and your friends ever Give some examples where you you . Describe a time when you had a secret code? Did it work? had to receive forgiveness from have followed that person’s good advice . Why is it sometimes diffi- someone else . 3 . What word would you use to cult for you to do the right thing? describe Greg and Rodrick’s rela- 2 . When Emily discovers Brandon’s tionship? How does their mother secret, she tries to persuade 2 . How might Sir Gallawood’s try to get them to do more things advice benefit you in your life? him to tell the truth . How does together? Does it work? What Brandon respond? Tell about a Can you think of a time when will it take for Greg and Rodrick’s you behaved justly and unself- time when you told the truth, relationship to improve? even though it got you or some- ishly? What happened? What does it mean to be true to one else in trouble . 4 . What kind of friend is Greg to yourself? Rowley? What kind of friend is 3 . Bree encourages Emily to make Rowley to Greg? Are you more peace with Rachel . What does 3 . Which brother would you have like Rowley or Greg when it picked to become a knight? How she tell Emily to do? How does comes to friendship? Explain . Matthew 5:23-25 relate to Emily’s does Roland and Shelby’s father decide who to choose? Are his situation? Describe a time when 5 . If you had a new journal, what is tests fair? If you had to choose you had to work or play with the first thing you would write one person in your class to be a someone you didn’t get along about? with . What did you do? knight, who would it be? What qualities does this person have that are important or knightly? Roland Wright Future Rodrick Rules This realistic book Knight is the second in This historical fic- Roll of Thunder, Hear the “Diary of a tion story by Tony Davis is the first My Cry Wimpy Kid” series This historical in the “Roland by Jeff Kinney and fiction novel by Wright” series is published by Mildred D. Taylor published by Amulet Books, an is the first in a Delacorte Press, imprint of Harry series about the an imprint of N. Abrams, Inc. Logan family pub- Random House Rodrick Rules is written for kids ages lished by Dial Children’s Books, a division of 8 to 12. Books, a member Random House Inc. This book is of Penguin Group, Search for a review of this book written for kids ages 6 to 9. USA, and is written for kids ages 8 to for parents at pluggedin.com/ 12 years. book-reviews. Search for a review of this book for parents at pluggedin.com/ Search for a review of this book book-reviews. If your children have read this book, for parents at pluggedin.com/ consider talking about the story book-reviews. using these discussion questions: If your children have read this book, consider talking about the story If your children have read this book, 1 . Why doesn’t Greg care to hear using these discussion questions: about Rowley’s vacation? If he consider talking about the story finds other people’s vacations using these discussion questions:

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14 1 . How would you feel if people 1 . What is the difference between 2 . Have you ever been bullied, like treated you the way they treat true love and attraction? Which Horace was? What did you do? Cassie and other black people in do you think Romeo and Juliet What would you have done in this story? How would you want had, and why? Horace’s situation? Should he to respond to them? Why do have told someone? How did Cassie, Uncle Hammer and oth- 2 . What does “Romeo and Juliet” Holt handle the situation? What ers sometimes hold their tongues teach us about holding grudges do you think he should have rather than lashing out? or acting upon our prejudices? done? Is violence ever necessary to solve problems? Explain your 3 . What mistakes were made in 2 . What are some of the ways the answer . Logans do fight back against “Romeo and Juliet?” racism? What risks are they tak- 3 . Why would you like to be a 4 . Is a double suicide romantic? ing by doing this? Do you think Ranger? What skills do you have you would have fought back or 5 . Based on what the Bible says that would make you suitable kept quiet if you were in their about the treatment of our bodies for the task? What would it be situation? (Romans 12:1; 1 Corinthians 6:15, like to train with Holt? Do you 19-20, for example), how do you think Will chose well when he 3 . Why does Mama take the kids to think God feels about suicide? ultimately picked being a Ranger the Barry home? What does she over going to Battleschool? What reveal to them after they leave? would you have chosen? Why? When has witnessing something painful helped you learn a valu- 4 . Why is it significant that Will able lesson? The Ruins of Gorlan knows very little about his past? This fantasy Why does that make it diffi- adventure is the 4 . What kind of person is T . J .? cult for him to determine what first book in What happens to him at the he should do as a career choice? the “Ranger’s end of the story? How does he How does your past (family his- Apprentice” series get himself into this terrible sit- tory, your experiences, your by John Flanagan uation? What does his story parents’ careers, etc .) affect what and is published suggest about the type of people you will become as an adult? by Puffin Books, with whom we should surround Explain your answer . ourselves? a division of Penguin Young Readers Group. The Ruins of Gorlan is written for kids ages 12 and up. Romeo and Juliet Search for a review of this book This play for parents at pluggedin.com/ by William book-reviews. Shakespeare is published by If your children have read this book, Signet Classic, consider talking about the story Penguin Group using these discussion questions: and is written for adults but is some- 1 . Why do you think Holt empha- times studied by sizes honesty as he trains Will? high school classes. Why does he tell Will not to bluff but to be straightforward when Search for a review of this book he doesn’t know an answer? for parents at pluggedin.com/ What does honesty have to do book-reviews. with being a Ranger, or with doing any job well? How might If your children have read this book, Will have failed in his tasks if consider talking about the story he didn’t value honesty? Why is using these discussion questions: it important for you to practice honesty in your life?

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