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The Sunbearer Trials

#1 of 2 in The Sunbearer Duology Series

4.31
on Goodreads (22,989)

What’s inside...

Welcome to The Sunbearer Trials, where teen semidioses compete in a series of challenges in a high-stakes Mexican-inspired fantasy. Every decade, the Sun's power must be replenished, and ten young semidioses selected by Sol himself must participate. The winner brings light and life, while the loser is sacrificed to fuel the Sun Stones. Teo, a Jade semidiós, finds himself chosen alongside his fellow competitor Xio. Together, they must navigate the trials against more powerful and trained opponents for a chance at survival.
In series
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

13-18

Length

405 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Teo
Niya
Xio
Aurelio

Discussion points

What do you think are the most important qualities in a hero, based on the characters in 'The Sunbearer Trials'?
How do the characters handle challenges and what can we learn from them?
Can you think of a time when you had to work with others to solve a problem, like the characters in the book?
What do you think about the world where the story takes place? How is it similar or different from our world?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
To foster a deep engagement, let your child lead the conversation with their thoughts and feelings about the book. Use open-ended questions to explore the themes and characters deeper together. Show interest in their perspectives and gently guide the discussion towards the moral and ethical lessons in the story. Encourage them to connect the story to their own life experiences, enhancing empathy and understanding.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: The protagonist of 'The Sunbearer Trials' demonstrates courage by facing numerous challenges throughout the trials, inspiring readers to find bravery within themselves.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and overcome personal challenges, whether it's trying out for a sports team, standing up to a bully, or tackling a tough subject in school.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Characters in the book must work together to advance in the trials, showing that collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to understand the importance of teamwork in achieving common goals in school projects, sports, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Acceptance and Diversity
Explanation: The book features a diverse cast of characters, each bringing unique strengths to the table, teaching the value of accepting and celebrating differences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by embracing diversity in their classrooms and communities, promoting an inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Leadership
Explanation: The protagonist takes on the role of a leader, learning to be responsible for the well-being of others.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to take on leadership roles, be it during class assignments or in peer groups, understanding the responsibilities that come with it.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Resilience
Explanation: Despite setbacks, the characters persist through the trials, showcasing resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of perseverance in the face of difficulties, from academic struggles to personal setbacks.

The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas