Common Sense Media Review
By Amanda Nojadera
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Thrilling tale highlights Filipino culture, perseverance.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
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 :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , School ( 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, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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