About This Book
Andrew Clements' "We the Children" introduces sixth-grader Ben Pratt, whose life is upended by his parents' separation and the impending demolition of his cherished seaside school. When the school janitor entrusts him with a cryptic, tarnished coin before his death, Ben is drawn into a compelling mystery. This book explores themes of resilience, community activism, and navigating personal change, as Ben must decipher clues and rally support to protect his school. It's an engaging read for children aged 8-12, offering a blend of realistic fiction with elements of mystery and adventure.
Sixth-grader Ben Pratt's life is full of changes that he does not like--his parents' separation and the plan to demolish his seaside school to build an amusement park--but when the school janitor gives him a tarnished coin with some old engravings and then dies, Ben is drawn into an effort to keep the school from being destroyed.
Character Death
Discussion Prompts
1
How does Ben's personal struggle with his parents' separation connect to his fight to save the school?
2
What role does the mysterious coin play in motivating Ben, and what does it symbolize?
3
If your school or a place you loved was threatened, what steps would you take to try and save it?
External Reviews
If Your Family Enjoyed This
Reviews
No reviews yet — be the first to share how this book landed with your family.