The Rottenest Angel
#10 of 16 in Rotten School Series
What’s inside...
Angel Goodeboy appears to be a perfect angel who even wears a T-shirt that says 'Mommy's Little Angel.' However, when no teachers are around, his true colors show as he takes over Bernie Bridges' room, steals his friends, and charms his girlfriend. Bernie is determined to regain his status and get rid of Angel, but he faces the challenge of figuring out how to get rid of someone who seems like an angel to everyone else.
Character compass
Bernie Bridges
Angel Goode
Discussion points
How do you think Rotten School would be different if Angel Goodeboy weren't so perfect?
What did you learn about friendship from the interactions between the characters in the story?
Why do you think Bernie Bridges plays pranks, and what do these actions tell us about his character?
If you were at Rotten School, how would you handle a character like Angel Goodeboy?
What are the consequences of the characters' actions, and what does that teach us about responsibility?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the characters and their choices in the story, showing genuine interest in your child’s perspective. Encourage your child to think about what they would do in similar situations faced by the characters. Discuss the moral lessons and how they apply to everyday life, drawing parallels to real-life scenarios they might encounter. Validate their feelings and thoughts to foster a comfortable environment for open discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: Throughout 'The Rottenest Angel', the characters learn the consequences of lying and the eventual relief and resolution that honesty brings.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the value of being truthful in their interactions with friends and family, fostering a more trusting environment.
Example Lesson: Responsibility for one's actions
Explanation: The protagonist, Angel, faces various situations where he must own up to his actions to resolve the chaos caused.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of accepting responsibility for their actions and learning how to rectify mistakes in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Angel’s journey includes moments where he has to step into other characters' shoes and see things from their perspective, learning empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more considerate and understanding of others' feelings and viewpoints, aiding in their social interactions and emotional connections.
Example Lesson: The consequences of misbehavior
Explanation: The book clearly outlines how Angel’s mischievous acts impact others around him, teaching about consequences.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that their actions have impacts on others, encouraging them to think before acting.
Example Lesson: The power of redemption
Explanation: Angel shows that it is never too late to correct wrongs and make amends, highlighting the theme of redemption.
Real-World Application: This lesson offers hope and encourages children to always strive to better themselves and correct past mistakes.