A Darkling Plain
#4 of 5 in Mortal Engines Quartet Series
on Goodreads (14,598)
What’s inside...
The fourth and final book in Philip Reeve's Mortal Engines Quartet. The great Traction City of London now lies in ruins. Once, not so long ago, it hunted other cities across the vast wastes of a devastated land. Now it is a poisonous, lifeless wreck - until Tom Natsworthy and his daughter, Wren, uncover the secret hidden in its dark heart. It's a secret that could bring an end to the war once and for all. But as Tom and Wren risk their lives, time is running out. Far away, a dangerous child with a deadly secret of his own is making a journey that may lead to the destruction of the entire human race.
Character compass
Tom Natsworthy
Theo Ngoni
Wren Natsworthy
Hester Shaw
The Shrike
Stalker Fang
General Naga
Fishcake
Nimrod Pennyroyal
Name
Discussion points
How do the characters in 'A Darkling Plain' demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges? Can you think of a time when you showed resilience?
The story explores themes of redemption and forgiveness. What do you think is the most powerful moment of forgiveness in the book?
In 'A Darkling Plain,' different societies and cultures come into contact and conflict. How do the characters navigate these differences, and what can we learn from their interactions?
The world in the book is a post-apocalyptic future with advanced technology. How do you think the setting impacts the decisions and lives of the characters?
Why do you think the author, Philip Reeve, chose to end the story the way he did? What other endings can you imagine for the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the shoes of the characters. Ask them how they might react in similar situations.
Highlight the book’s complex themes and encourage your child to share their opinions and feelings about the events in the story.
Discuss the historical and futuristic elements in 'A Darkling Plain'. This can be a fun way to integrate learning with imaginative speculation about technology and society.
Use examples from the book to have conversations about moral choices and the consequences of one's actions on others around them.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative scenarios or endings for the book, fostering creative thinking and a deeper understanding of narrative structure.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of forgiveness and reconciliation
Explanation: In 'A Darkling Plain', characters are portrayed navigating complex relationships and conflicts, ultimately learning to forgive and reconcile with each other. This is exemplified in the poignant interactions between Hester and her daughter Wren as they mend their strained relationship.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to resolve conflicts with friends and family members through understanding and forgiveness, promoting harmonious relationships.
Example Lesson: Understanding the impact of one's actions on others
Explanation: The story illustrates the consequences of the characters' decisions on their community and the wider world. This is shown through the characters' involvement in warfare and the subsequent effects on cities and civilizations.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to consider how their actions affect others around them, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy towards their peers and community.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Characters in the book often succeed by working together towards common goals, overcoming challenges that seemed insurmountable when faced alone. Key moments include collaborative efforts to achieve peace and rebuild societies.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of cooperating with others, whether in school projects or group activities, understanding that collective effort often leads to greater success.
Example Lesson: Adapting to change and embracing new beginnings
Explanation: As the story unfolds, characters are frequently faced with new environments and shifting allegiances, learning to adapt and thrive amidst change. This is particularly evident in the transformative journeys of Tom and Hester.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be flexible and open-minded when encountering new situations or challenges, helping them to grow and thrive in changing circumstances.