About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with themes of restorative justice or feels a deep desire to vindicate a loved one. It is especially resonant for children of incarcerated parents, offering a safe space to explore the complex emotions of grief and the pursuit of truth. The story follows Owen, who uses advanced technology to access ancestral memories in hopes of clearing his late father's name from a crime he didn't commit. While the plot is driven by sci-fi and action, the heart of the book is about identity and the weight of history. Set against the visceral backdrop of the 1863 New York Draft Riots, it introduces readers to difficult historical truths through a fast-paced adventure. It is best suited for readers aged 12 and up due to its intense depictions of historical violence and the heavy emotional burden of family tragedy.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
DISTRESS: The book contains visceral descriptions of the 1863 Draft Riots, including depictions of mob violence, racial targeting, and public lynchings. These scenes are historically grounded but may be deeply distressing for sensitive readers. CONVERSATION: Parents should be prepared to discuss the historical context of the Civil War draft and the specific racial animosity that fueled the 1863 riots. It is also an opportunity to discuss the American criminal justice system and the emotional impact of having a parent die while incarcerated.
Ideal Reader
A middle or high schooler who loves the Assassin's Creed games but is also looking for a story that acknowledges real-world struggles like family loss and social injustice.
Parent Prep
Preview the chapters involving the riots (starting around the midpoint) to gauge the reader's readiness for descriptions of historical racial violence. A child expressing frustration that a situation is unfair or feeling like their family's reputation is unfairly tarnished.
Age Experience
Younger readers (12-13) will focus on the cool tech and the mystery of the artifact. Older readers (15-17) will likely pick up on the more complex nuances of genetic legacy and the ethical dilemmas of the two warring factions.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many video game tie-ins, Kirby treats the historical setting with academic rigor and provides a raw, unflinching look at a dark chapter of American history through a sci-fi lens.
Read plot summary
Owen, a teenager mourning his father who died in prison for a crime he likely didn't commit, partners with a group of classmates to enter the Animus. Under the guidance of an IT specialist named Monroe, they dive into a shared genetic memory of the 1863 New York Draft Riots. Their mission is to find the Trident of Eden, a legendary artifact, while navigating the dangerous conflict between the Assassins and the Templars.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Owen is desperate to clear his father's name. How does this drive his decisions, and do you think he takes too many risks to achieve it?
2
The Animus allows the characters to experience their ancestors' lives. If you could see the memories of one of your ancestors, who would it be and why?
3
The 1863 Draft Riots were a real historical event. How did seeing this history through Owen's eyes change your perspective on that time period?
4
Monroe tells the teens they share a 'genetic memory.' How does this shared history help the group work together despite their differences?
5
The Assassins and the Templars have very different views on peace and control. Based on what you've read, which philosophy do you find more compelling?
