Freddie vs. the Family Curse
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Tracy Badua's Freddie vs. the Family Curse is a funny, thrilling tale about a boy who has 13 days to break a generations-long family curse or he'll die. The book highlights Filipino culture, history, folklore, and superstitions. Some readers might be frightened of the evil spirits that are trying to hurt Freddie and his family. The spirits cause a couple of characters to fall, and another sprains her ankle. Kids at school make fun of Freddie and call him "Faceplant Freddie" because he's always running into things or getting hurt. There's one use of "heck" and brief mentions of whiskey and smoking.
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What's the Story?
In FREDDIE VS. THE FAMILY CURSE, Filipino-American Freddie Ruiz believes that bad luck follows him because of the Ruiz family curse. While other kids his age are having fun with their friends, like his cousin Sharkey, Freddie knows it's best if he stays on the sidelines to avoid embarrassing himself. But when Freddie finds an heirloom from the Philippines that's supposed to bring good luck, he's convinced life will finally change. Instead, Freddie discovers that his great-grand uncle, Ramon, has been trapped in the amulet since WWII. On top of that, he only has 13 days to break the family curse, or he'll join Ramon in the afterlife. Can Freddie find a way to save himself and free his ancestor before it's too late?
Is It Any Good?
Tracy Badua's thrilling fantasy adventure mixes history and humor, making it a must-read for kids. Not only does the book highlight Filipino culture, traditions, and superstitions, but readers will also learn about the importance of family, friendship, perseverance, and courage. And while there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments throughout Freddie vs. the Family Curse, it's clear that Freddie's fear of further embarrassment is holding him back. But kids will love how Freddie beings to understand his family's past and learn that he can be bold and brave like his ancestors.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the role of Filipino history, culture, and superstitions in Freddie vs. the Family Curse. What did you learn? Where can you learn more?
Do you ever feel different or left out? Do you think others in your class or school feel that way? What can you do to help them feel included?
How do the characters demonstrate perseverance and courage? Why are those important character strengths?
Book Details
- Author: Tracy Badua
- Genre: Fantasy
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Middle School
- Character Strengths: Courage, Perseverance
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Clarion Books
- Publication date: May 3, 2022
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 8 - 12
- Number of pages: 256
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: July 27, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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Lalani of the Distant Sea
Girl goes on epic quest in Filipino folklore-inspired tale.
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The Girl Who Drank the Moon
Entrancing fantasy spun with magic stresses power of love.
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Where the Mountain Meets the Moon
Chinese girl's Oz-like adventure begs to be read aloud.
For kids who love exciting stories
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