Lore

Lore

• Genre: Fiction; mythological fantasy
• Originally Published: 2021
• Reading Level/Interest: Grades 9-12
• Structure/Length: 5 parts, 58 chapters; approximately 546 pages; approximately 15 hours, 47 minutes on audio
• Protagonist/Central Conflict: The novel follows Lore Perseous, a young woman who long ago rejected the Agon—a secret annual event in which ancient Greek gods, made mortal for a short time, are hunted and killed for their immortality and power. When an old friend asks for her help, Lore realizes she may not be able to avoid the Agon any longer. The central conflict revolves around Lore’s journey to navigate the dangerous and treacherous world of the Agon, filled with rivalries, alliances, and her own history, as she seeks to uncover the truth and protect herself and those she cares about.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Violence; mythology-based conflicts; gore; torture; death; sexual assault

Alexandra Bracken, Author

• Bio: Born 1987; American author known for her young adult and middle grade novels; notable for her storytelling in various genres, including fantasy, dystopian, and historical fiction; Lore blends ancient mythology with contemporary themes; gained recognition with The Darkest Minds series; known for strong character development and world-building; engages with readers through social media and book events
• Other Works: The Darkest Minds series (2012-2018); Passenger series (2016-2018); The Dreadful Tale of Prosper Redding (2017); The Last Life of Prince Alastor (2019); In the Afterlight (2018)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

• Belief in One’s Power Corrupts
• Strength Is More Than Physical
• Choosing Our Own Path Sets Us Free

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will:

• Learn more about the cultural and social aspects of Greek mythology that drive the plot.
• Study paired texts and other brief resources to make connections via the text’s themes of Belief in One’s Power Corrupts, Strength Is More Than Physical, and Choosing Our Own Path Sets Us Free.
• Design, construct, and present an infographic on a god or goddess or an aegis that conveys major themes based on novel details.
• Examine and appraise the author’s purpose in structured essay responses regarding the title, the use of flashbacks, and other topics.