4-6th Grade Book Discussion

Virtual Book Discussion & STEM Activity

Join us virtually for a 4-6th grade book discussion, followed by a fun STEM activity.

This month we will be discussing Masterminds by Gordon Korman. The book is available for digital download via Hoopla.

The discussion will be followed by a fun STEM activity.

STEM Supplies Needed: Lemons (grab 2 to be safe); Baking Soda; Food Coloring; Dawn Dish Soap; Plate, Tray, or Bowl; 
 Craft Sticks 

Discussion Questions: 

1. What is this book about? What are the main themes? 
2. Eli and his friends live in the “perfect” town. What makes Serenity perfect? 
3. In the beginning of the novel, Hector says that he knows his parents care for him, even if they don’t show it, because he heard them say that he was “valuable.” Think about the difference between value and love. Is to be valued enough? 
4. As Eli and his friends start to realize something is wrong in Serenity, the first thing they discover is that their internet, books and basic information is being censored. What is censorship and how would you feel if your internet was censored? 
5. Once the kids realize that they are test subjects and that the town was build for them, the realize that they are being put under “tests of character.” What is this and how would this make you feel? 
6. The big reveal is that the kids find out they are actually clones of criminal masterminds. How would you feel about being a clone and a clone of a criminal at that?  
7. Each of the kids show strengths in an area that might be connected to their criminal genes? What are some examples of this? 
8. One theme in this book is nature vs nurture—is it our genes that tell us who we will be or is it the way we are raised. Let’s discuss this. What do you think?  
9. Each of the kids feel differently when they find out that their parents are in on Serenity’s secret. Can you understand each of their reactions? How would you feel?  
10. Where do you think the story is heading? Will the kids run or will they seek revenge or to out the whole experiment?  

For security reasons, this program session will be locked 5 minutes after it begins. Please log in promptly.

Join us in Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/91331392039

Or Dial In: 301 715 8592; Meeting ID: 913 3139 2039

By joining this Virtual MCPL program, you agree to abide by our rules of conduct. Library staff has the authority to remove you from this program if we deem your behavior to be inappropriate, to ensure the safety of staff and customers.

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