#1 in The Story Thieves Series
Pick the Plot
2017 by
on Goodreads (2,094)
What’s inside...
When Owen finds himself stuck in a Pick Your Own Plot story, things get more complicated than ever in this fourth book in the New York Times bestselling series, Story Thieves—which was called a “fast-paced, action-packed tale” by School Library Journal—from the author of the Half Upon a Time trilogy.
Being able to jump into books used to seem like the greatest thing in the world to Owen Connors. But now Owen’s trapped in a time travel book where readers—that would be you—decide how the story goes.
As if that weren’t enough, Owen’s also stuck in a prison for time criminals in a prehistoric era. He’s surrounded by bizarre fellow prisoners, including Kara Dox. How does Kara recognize Owen if they’ve never met before? She seems to think they’re old friends, but that can’t be possible. Still, Kara might just be the only chance Owen has to escape. And he has to find a way out to save his friend Bethany, who’s still in grave danger. Because unless Owen can stop him, Nobody is going to split Bethany into two, separating the fictional and non-fictional worlds forever.
Will Owen be able to convince you, the reader, to help him find his way back to Bethany? Or will you feed him to dinosaurs just to teach him a lesson? It’s all up to you when you Pick the Plot.
Why read this book
- Interactive story engages and stimulates decision-making skills.
- Fosters creativity with multiple story paths and endings.
- Enhances reading comprehension through engaging plot choices.
- Encourages active participation, boosting focus and interest.
The Big Picture
- Each choice leads to a unique story path.
- Understand decisions impact outcomes.
- Interactive format engages critical thinking.
- Facilitates discussions on real-life choices.
Diversity & Representation
- Encourages inclusivity through diverse characters and settings.
- Promotes understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
- Fosters acceptance and empathy among young readers.
Book in series
#1
Age
8-12
Length
367 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
How would you change the story if you were the main character?
What do you think the main characters learned by the end of the book?
Which part of the book was the most exciting for you, and why?
If you could ask the author one question, what would it be?
How do the choices made by the characters change the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the plot and character development. Validate their opinions and guide them to connect the story to their own experiences, which can deepen their understanding and empathy. Use the questions to facilitate a dialogue that helps them explore different perspectives and enhances their problem-solving skills.
What parents love
Perfect blend of fun narrative and learning opportunities!
My child loves choosing and predicting the plot outcomes.
Very thoughtful handling of deeper themes for kids.
Engages my child’s decision-making skills creatively.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: The power of choice and consequences
Explanation: In 'Pick the Plot,' readers get to make choices that determine the story's direction, demonstrating how decisions lead to different outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children learn that their choices have impacts and are encouraged to think about the consequences before making decisions in daily life.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: The interactive format of the book encourages readers to solve problems and navigate through different scenarios, enhancing their critical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop strategies to solve school tasks or interpersonal issues by considering various solutions and outcomes.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: As children choose different paths in the story, they engage in creative thinking and expand their imaginative capacities.
Real-World Application: This fosters creativity in personal expression and can inspire innovative thinking in projects, storytelling, or art.
Example Lesson: Accountability for actions
Explanation: The book shows that the character's fate is in the hands of the reader, teaching accountability for the choices made within the story.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding their responsibility for their actions in group activities or in their personal tasks.
Example Lesson: Empathy and perspective-taking
Explanation: By exploring different storylines and outcomes, readers experience various perspectives, fostering empathy.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and relate to different viewpoints among peers or in family discussions, promoting better interpersonal relationships.