The Word Reclaimed (The Face of the Deep Book 1)
#1 of 4 in The Face Of The Deep Series
on Goodreads (115)
What’s inside...
In a distant future where religion has been abolished by the secret police in the five colonies, Baden, a salvager, stumbles upon a Bible among the space wreckage. This rare find could fetch a handsome reward, but it also puts him in danger as the secret police are tipped off about its existence. As interstellar war rages on, Baden must navigate the perilous situation of reclaiming the Word that was erased, turning his discovery into a matter of afterlife and death.
Character compass
Baden Haczyk
Discussion points
What do you think about the importance of words and communication in the story?
How do you feel about the characters' choices and their consequences?
What would you have done if you were in the main character's situation?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in our world?
What did you learn about bravery and standing up for what you believe in?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, reinforcing that their opinions are valued.
Discuss the similarities and differences between the book's universe and our own, prompting your child to think critically about the world around them.
Talk about the decisions made by the characters, asking your child what they would do differently and why.
Explore themes of communication and the significance of words, encouraging your child to reflect on how communication impacts their own life.
Acknowledge complex themes and guide your child to understand the moral and ethical questions raised in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of preserving knowledge
Explanation: In 'The Word Reclaimed,' the protagonist fights to protect and preserve forbidden texts in a future where such materials are banned. This demonstrates the value and power of knowledge.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to value their education and the access they have to information, fostering a lifelong love for reading and learning.
Example Lesson: Standing up for what you believe in
Explanation: Characters in the book face significant risks to defend their beliefs, showing the importance of conviction even in the face of adversity.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to voice their opinions and stand firm in their beliefs, be it in school debates or in standing against what they perceive as wrong.
Example Lesson: The impact of technology on society
Explanation: The story explores how technology can control and limit access to information, highlighting both its benefits and dangers.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use technology wisely, understanding its potential to both enhance and restrict human interaction and knowledge.
Example Lesson: The power of collaboration
Explanation: Characters in the novel often work together to overcome obstacles, underscoring the message that teamwork can achieve goals that might seem impossible for an individual.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in group projects at school, encouraging teamwork and showing how diverse ideas can lead to successful outcomes.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters encounter various challenges but continue to push forward, emphasizing the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to persist in their tasks and pursuits, whether in their academic endeavors or personal goals, even when they face difficulties.