The Cost of Knowing Discussion Questions and The Cost of Knowing Review written by Hannah Gottschalk-Lineman on 5/8/2021 This post contains affiliate links, you can find out more on our policies page or in the disclaimer at the bottom of the blog.
Know Before You Read
Book: The Cost of Knowing
Author and Illustrator: Brittney Morris
Pages: 322
Published: April 6th, 2021
Age Suggestion: 13+
Themes: coming of age, family heritage, racism, sibling relationships, teen dating relationships
Warnings: Mass shooting, murder, car accidents, death of parents and young teens, cussing.
*The tragedies depicted in this story are in no way gruesome or gory, but the content is certainly sobering and could be triggering for some or disturbing to young readers. At the core, The Cost of Knowing is about love and resilience, but the difficult topics covered in the story are a great starting point for family discussions about the world we live in.
Quick Summary of The Cost of Knowing
Every time sixteen-year-old Alex touches an object he can see the future of that object. This strange power has truly become a curse in Alex’s life as he becomes anxious and controlled by the visions that he sees. The Cost of Knowing follows Alex as he navigates the loss of his parents and best friend, a complicated dating relationship, work, and racism in America. What will be next and can Alex afford the cost of knowing?!
The Cost of Knowing Review
-Why Read The Cost of Knowing-
Wow! I was captivated by Alex’s emotional coming of age story. The terrific writing and use of visions of both the future and past throughout the story keeps you wondering what happens next and constantly trying to connect the dots. Not only is the book well written, Brittney Morris speaks to important and relevant topics such as racism, racial profiling, toxic masculinity, generational trauma, anxiety, teen dating relationships, and the importance of family and community.
***Spoilers Beyond This Point***
-Plot Review-
Alex suddenly discovers his ability to see the future after the death of his parents. He forces himself to control the curse after he sees a vision of one of his closest friend’s death. Terrified, he retreats and a few days later his friend is in a fatal car crash. Alex lives with overwhelming guilt until he sees a vision of his younger brother’s gravestone.
Faced with the knowledge of his brother’s fast approaching death he chooses to repair his estranged relationship with his brother. The relationship between Alex and his brother, Isaiah, is one of my favorite parts of the book. Alex faces his fears in order to give Isaiah an amazing experience and make sure he feels loved. After Isaiah is tragically killed, Alex cannot stay quiet about the reality of the racism and hatred around him.
-Characters-
Alex and Isaiah are beautifully developed characters. As a reader you feel the anxiety of Alex as you anticipate his breakup and the death of Isaiah. I was quickly invested in the mending of Alex and Isaiah’s relationship. The love that they share is genuine. The boys bond over their shared experiences and favorite rapper. Alex’s coming of age story is relatable as he struggles with becoming the man of the family after the passing of his parents. Alex learns that being a man is more about being brave and caring for your family than earning a paycheck.
-Favorite Quotes from The Cost of Knowing Book-
“If a real man would stand up for himself and ask for help when he needs it, I know I’m saying the right thing.” (page 300)
“Joy in the face of oppression is its own kind of bravery” (page 238)
“We’re making the most of the time we have left. No matter how terrifying.” (page 208)
The Cost of Knowing Discussion Questions:
- Do you think seeing the past or future is a blessing or a curse?
- Do you think that knowing your family history is important? Why or why not?
- Throughout the story Alex wrestles with what it means to be a man—especially the idea that “a man’s not a man without his paycheck.” What do you think about this comment from his dad? What do you think it means to be a man?
- Alex confronts his neighbor, Karen. Do you think he did the right thing?
Final Thoughts:
Alex is a character with great depth who confronts racist neighbors, grieves the loss of friends and family members, and demonstrates great maturity and responsibility. I recommend this story to teens and adults alike.
P.S. do not read before work in the morning, because you will cry.
Thanks for reading our The Cost of Knowing Review and Discussion Questions. Check out some related Reviews
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–Concrete Rose Review: It’s the prequel to The Hate U Give and a really engaging read
–American Born Chinese: A graphic novel about learning to bravely be yourself
Meet the Author- Hannah Gottschalk
Hello! I am an elementary school teacher in the Bronx, New York and am passionate about teaching students to love reading! In my free time you will find me hiking, visiting museums, reading, and drinking caramel frappucinos. Find me @hannahhaschalk on Instagram or @mrs.haschalk TikTok. Go check out her other reviews, Jason Reynold’s Look Both Ways and What I Like About Me too!
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