Control
#2 in Outernet Series
What’s inside...
After escaping from the prison planet of Kazamblam, Jack and Loaf, along with Merle and their alien allies, must decide whether to wait for the Friends to come for the Server, or seek out the Weaver. The Outernet -- a web of intergalactic computer networks linked through Servers on different planets -- is under attack. Our heroes, including several not-so-clever Earth kids and a meddling cat and dog team, have in their possession the last Server under Friends' control. The fate of the galaxy rests on their shoulders, and it's time to start the quest to save the world or sit back and eat cheeseburgers. It's a tough choice, but, luckily, our heroes make the right one. So now, Jack, Merle, and Loaf are on a journey to restore freedom to the galaxy. Look out below!
Discussion points
What do you think makes the character feel like they need to be in control all the time?
How do you feel when things don't go as planned, similar to situations in the book?
Can you think of a time when letting someone else take the lead helped solve a problem?
What are some ways the characters could have handled their conflicts differently?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a calm and curious tone when asking questions to make your child feel comfortable in expressing their thoughts.
Relate the discussions to real-life situations your child might encounter, enhancing their ability to connect with the book’s themes.
Encourage your child to think about alternate endings based on different choices the characters could have made, fostering creative thinking.
Reinforce that it’s okay to not always be in control, and discuss the importance of flexibility and cooperation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: In 'Control', characters face outcomes based on their decisions, teaching readers about responsibility and foresight.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think about the outcomes of their actions, helping them make more responsible choices in daily life.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Characters in the book often collaborate to solve problems, underscoring the value of working together.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate the benefits of collaborative efforts in school projects or family tasks.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The book presents challenges that the characters must overcome, demonstrating perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to persist through their own difficulties, whether they're academic challenges or personal obstacles.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: Characters in 'Control' learn to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering a sense of empathy.
Real-World Application: This can guide children to be more considerate and empathetic towards their peers and family members.
Example Lesson: Innovation and creativity
Explanation: The story celebrates creative solutions to problems.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively in their approach to problems and fosters innovation in learning and play.