Sideshow: Ten Original Tales of Freaks, Illusionists and Other Matters Odd and Magical
What’s inside...
Freaks, magicians, psychics, and the passing strange take center stage in ten original tales by top YA authors and graphic novelists. Molly is a bearded girl who joins the circus, only to find that her former tormentor faces a far hairier plight. Tia claims that her lamented mom is a three-thousand-year-old mummy, but is it really an act? Cody sets out to foil a pop psychic, but the shocking result is not what he planned for. And Tiffany's grandma sees something wild in her future, but is the girl prepared for the powerful shape it will take? Whether the sideshow touts a two-headed rat or a turn-of-the-century American jargo, whether the subject discovers an odd kind of miracle or learns that the real freaks are outside the tent, these stories and graphic tales are by turns humorous and insightful, edgy and eerie, but always compulsively entertaining.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
14-17
Length
240 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do the characters' unique abilities influence their interactions with others in the stories?
What do you think is the importance of understanding and accepting differences in others, as shown in the book?
Which story or character did you find the most intriguing, and why?
How do the settings contribute to the magical and odd elements of the tales?
What lessons can we learn about bravery and self-acceptance from the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express which character they felt most connected to, and explore the reasons behind their choice to foster empathy and understanding.
Discuss the various settings in the book and how they enhance the storytelling. This can lead to a deeper appreciation of literary elements.
Use the book’s theme of differences to discuss real-life scenarios where people's unique traits are either celebrated or challenged, enhancing social awareness.
Highlight key moments of bravery or self-acceptance in the book to discuss the importance of these traits in personal development.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The diverse cast of characters in 'Sideshow' with their unique abilities and backgrounds teaches readers to appreciate and empathize with people who are different from themselves.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing kindness and understanding towards classmates and peers who may come from different cultural or personal backgrounds.
Example Lesson: The importance of self-acceptance
Explanation: Characters in the stories often come to terms with their unique talents and appearances, learning to embrace themselves instead of feeling outcast.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to appreciate their own uniqueness and feel confident in who they are, thereby fostering a positive self-image.
Example Lesson: Courage to face challenges
Explanation: The protagonists frequently confront and overcome various obstacles, showcasing bravery and determination.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of facing fears and challenges head-on, which can help them tackle difficult situations in school or in their personal lives.
Example Lesson: The power of teamwork
Explanation: Many stories highlight characters collaborating and combining their unique abilities to solve problems or overcome adversaries.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of working together with others, highlighting how teamwork can lead to success in group projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: The anthology's variety of stories and characters underlines the importance of respecting and celebrating differences among people.
Real-World Application: By recognizing the strengths in diversity, children can foster more inclusive environments in their classrooms and social circles.