After the End

It's always bittersweet to finish a good book. On the one hand, it's exciting to reach the end. The biggest questions have been answered, the immediate danger has passed, and life can go back to normal. (Okay, that's not necessarily true, especially if the book is part of a series and ends on a cliffhanger. But hopefully there's some resolution!) On the other hand, it's sad to say goodbye to the characters and world you've been invested in for a whole book.

A good book deserves to be enjoyed and talked about for at least an hour after it's finished. Don't just put it down and forget about it!

One great way to give the book the thought it deserves is by starting a conversation about it. Form a book club or lend your book to a friend and make a plan to talk about it as soon as they finish reading it. Start the discussion with simple questions:

• Who's your favorite character?

• What was your favorite part?

• Was there a part of the story that surprised you?

Then dig a little further into the themes of the book. Look for connections between the fictional story and deeper truths about the world.

Another great way to keep enjoying a book after it's over is to bring your own creativity to the story. Draw a picture, compose a song, create a video trailer, or write your own work inspired by the characters or setting.

Each book review on The Alligator's Bookshelf includes a link to additional resources, where you'll find discussion questions to spark a thoughtful conversation about the book. I've also provided some creative writing prompts in case reading a great book inspires you to write something of your own!