Challenger Deep

Use these links to supplement and complement students’ reading of the work and to increase their overall enjoyment of literature. Challenge them to discern parallel themes, engage through visual and aural stimuli, and delve deeper into the thematic possibilities presented by the title.

Recommended Texts for Pairing

All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven

• a 2015 novel which tells the story of two teenagers who coincidentally meet when they are both contemplating suicide
• connects to the themes of Mental Illness, Victimhood and Responsibility, and The Nature of Reality
• Discuss the ways that the character’s stories are different and what they have in common. How do their stories inform us about what it is like to struggle with mental illness?
• All the Bright Places on SuperSummary

Dan Howler’s Schizophrenic Poems

• a series of 25 poems written by a poet with serious mental illness
• offers themes of loneliness, isolation, and The Nature of Reality
• helps the reader conceptualize the depth of struggles with mental health and psychosis

It’s Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini

• This novel was adapted into a film in 2012. The author tells his story of checking himself into a psychiatric ward and his journey from there.
• Like Caden, the protagonist uses his art to help cope with his depression. Both novels have a motif of art being used to help process struggles.
• connects with similar themes of Mental Illness and Victimhood and Responsibility
• It’s Kind of a Funny Story on SuperSummary

Other Student Resources

“The Art of Challenger Deep”

• The author’s son, Brendan Schusterman, discusses his artwork included throughout Challenger Deep.
• Students can read his descriptions in conjunction with the artwork appearing in the novel. What does Brendan’s discussion help us understand about what Caden is experiencing?
• Consider how art is therapeutic for the individual and helps us connect with others.

“Problems at School” by the Association for Children’s Mental Health

• discusses the ways that mental health problems might manifest at school and what school communities can do to assist students
• Consider Caden’s experience at school. How might he have been better supported?
• What recommendations from this article can inform our school communities?

“‘I Have Schizophrenia’: What It's Really Like to Live with the Mental Illness”

• In this Johnson & Johnson-sponsored article, patient Tanara describes her diagnosis of and treatment for schizophrenia.
• Students can compare her symptoms and experiences with Caden’s.
• Family is an important part of Caden’s recovery. Who helped Tanara with her struggle? Students can compare their experiences to better understand treatment and support systems.

Teacher Resources

Neal Shusterman’s Book Trailer for Challenger Deep

• The official book trailer for the novel can be used as an anticipatory resource or in discussion after reading.

“Teaching Mental Health” by James Stanfield

• resources for teachers on building positive classroom environments for students’ mental health