Girl Forgotten
Once/Now/Then/After Series
on Goodreads (2,698)
What’s inside...
Piper Gray starts a true-crime podcast investigating a seventeen-year-old cold case in this thrilling YA murder mystery by New York Times bestselling author April Henry. Seventeen years ago, Layla Trello was murdered and her killer was never found. Enter true-crime fan Piper Gray, who is determined to reopen Layla’s case and get some answers. With the help of Jonas—who has a secret of his own—Piper starts a podcast investigating Layla’s murder. But as she digs deeper into the mysteries of the past, Piper begins receiving anonymous threats telling her to back off the investigation, or else. The killer is still out there, and Piper must uncover their identity before they silence her forever.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-18
Length
264 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think are the main challenges the main character faces?
How do you think the character's feelings change throughout the story?
What would you have done differently if you were in the character's shoes?
What did you learn from the character's journey?
How does the story inspire you to act or think differently about your own challenges?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the conversation, encourage your child to think about the most memorable moments in the book.
Ask your child to relate personal experiences that might be similar to what the characters encounter in the story.
Listen actively to your child’s thoughts and feelings about the story, showing empathy and understanding for their perspectives.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings for the book, enhancing their creative thinking.
Discuss the moral values depicted in the story and how they can be applied in real life situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: In 'Girl Forgotten,' the characters often face challenging situations that require understanding and compassion from others. These interactions showcase the importance of empathy in forming connections and supporting one another.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy in their daily interactions at school or home by considering the feelings of their friends or family members before reacting or making decisions.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The protagonist of the book demonstrates courage by facing fears and standing up for what is right, despite potential consequences. This bravery is a central theme throughout the story.
Real-World Application: Children can embrace courage by speaking up against bullying, trying new activities, or advocating for themselves and others when needed.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Throughout 'Girl Forgotten,' the characters encounter numerous setbacks and challenges but continue to persevere. This resilience is crucial for the character's growth and success.
Real-World Application: Children can embody resilience by managing disappointments in academic or personal endeavors, viewing them as opportunities to learn and grow rather than failures.
Example Lesson: Importance of Community
Explanation: In the narrative, the characters learn the value of community support and collective effort when tackling difficult issues or situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the significance of community by participating in group activities, helping neighbors, or contributing to local events, understanding that communal effort can achieve greater outcomes.
Example Lesson: Self-Discovery
Explanation: As the story unfolds, the main character embarks on a journey of self-discovery, understanding personal strengths and weaknesses. This process is mirrored in the character's decisions and growth.
Real-World Application: Children can engage in self-discovery by exploring different hobbies, reflecting on their feelings and actions, and embracing their unique qualities and interests.