The Ruins - YA Dystopian Romance: The Union Series - Book 2
#2 in The Union Series
on Goodreads (56)
What’s inside...
Heartbroken, grief-stricken, and wracked with guilt, seventeen-year-old Evan Taylor returned to the Union, leaving behind the boy she loved. Now, she and her friends must find a way to do the impossible - warn the citizens of the Union about an impending rebel attack without alerting the government and risking retaliation against her friends in the Ruins. When every move Evan makes is thwarted, it soon becomes clear she's being watched. Faced with a daily fight to stay one step ahead of her pursuers, she returns to the Ruins. But life in the Ruins has its own dangers, and soon she's fighting a different battle - to stay alive long enough to discover the truth.
Discussion points
How do the characters in the book demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges? Can you think of a time when you showed resilience?
What role does friendship play in the story? How do friendships impact the decisions characters make?
The setting of this book is a dystopian society. What changes in our society would make it resemble the book's world?
Which character do you relate to the most and why?
How do the characters' relationships evolve throughout the book? How do you think these changes affect the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their views about the book by asking them to relate the scenarios or characters to their own life experiences. Highlight the significance of empathy by discussing the emotions and motivations of different characters. Use the dystopian setting to spark conversations about societal values and personal responsibilities. Lastly, promote a deeper connection by asking them to imagine alternative choices the characters might have made at various points in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters in 'The Ruins' display significant resilience as they navigate the challenges and dangers of a dystopian world.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain hopeful and persistent despite difficulties or setbacks they encounter in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The protagonists often rely on teamwork to overcome obstacles, solve problems, and protect each other in their perilous environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson underscores the value of working together with others, whether in school projects, sports, or family activities, to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and decision making
Explanation: Throughout the novel, characters must make complex decisions that weigh moral dilemmas and potential outcomes.
Real-World Application: Young readers can apply this to making thoughtful decisions in their lives, considering consequences and the well-being of others.
Example Lesson: Valuing diversity and different perspectives
Explanation: The story explores relationships between characters from different backgrounds, highlighting how diversity strengthens group dynamics.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate diverse perspectives and cultures, enhancing their empathy and social skills.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and leadership
Explanation: Characters take on leadership roles, learning to act responsibly for the benefit of their group and standing up for their beliefs.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of taking responsibility in leadership positions, whether in class, family, or community activities.