The Keepers Series
Icebreaker
2022 by
on Goodreads (17,257)
What’s inside...
Seventeen-year-old Mickey James III is a college freshman, a brother to five sisters, and a hockey legacy. With a father and a grandfather who have gone down in NHL history, Mickey is almost guaranteed the league's top draft spot. The only person standing in his way is Jaysen Caulfield, a contender for the `1 spot and Mickey's infuriating (and infuriatingly attractive) teammate. When rivalry turns to something more, Mickey will have to decide what he really wants, and what he's willing to risk for it.
Why read this book
- Explores themes of acceptance and teamwork.
- Enhances empathy and emotional intelligence.
- Captivating adventure keeps young readers engaged.
- Supports identity and self-expression development.
The Big Picture
- Promotes teamwork and collaboration.
- Encourages overcoming fears.
- Fosters problem-solving abilities.
- Enhances empathy and social understanding.
Diversity & Representation
- Features diverse characters from various cultural backgrounds.
- Promotes inclusivity and acceptance through engaging narratives.
- Encourages understanding and appreciation of global cultures.
Age
14-18
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when they were trying to fit in with the new team? Can you relate to their feelings?
What does being part of a team mean to you? How do the characters in the book demonstrate teamwork?
What challenges did the characters face and how did they overcome them? What would you have done in their situation?
How do the characters change from the beginning to the end of the story? Which character's journey did you find most interesting?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing your own experiences related to the themes in the book, such as teamwork or facing new challenges, to create a comfortable space for your child to open up.
Encourage your child to compare their personal experiences with those of the characters, fostering empathy and deeper understanding of the book’s messages.
After discussing a question, relate back to the text to point out specific examples that support or challenge your child’s thoughts, reinforcing their connection to the story and developing critical thinking skills.
Praise your child’s responses to affirm their thinking process, regardless if their interpretations align perfectly with the story, as this boosts confidence in expressing their viewpoints.
What parents love
Perfect mix of adventure and life lessons.
Keeps my 8-year-old engaged and eager to read!
Handled sensitive topics thoughtfully.
Great for sparking discussions on courage and friendship.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: In 'Icebreaker', diverse characters from various backgrounds come together as a team, highlighting the importance of acceptance and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the unique qualities of their peers and create inclusive environments in schools and playgrounds.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The story showcases a hockey team that must work together to achieve their goals, demonstrating that collaboration leads to success.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this concept in group projects or sports, learning that cooperation and communication are key to accomplishing shared objectives.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Adversity
Explanation: The protagonist faces personal and external challenges but shows resilience and determination to persevere, teaching the importance of grit.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to stay persistent in the face of difficulties, whether in academics, sports, or personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Importance of Honesty
Explanation: Characters in 'Icebreaker' learn through their experiences that honesty builds trust and strengthens relationships.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to practice honesty in their daily interactions, enhancing their relationships and building a trustworthy character.
Example Lesson: Self-Discovery and Identity
Explanation: The book explores themes of self-discovery as characters learn more about themselves and their passions, emphasizing the journey of personal growth.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to explore their own interests and talents, fostering a sense of self and confidence in their abilities.