A Sprinkle of Sorcery
#2 of 4 in A Pinch of Magic Series
on Goodreads (3,015)
What’s inside...
The family curse has been lifted and the Widdershins sisters: Betty, Fliss and Charlie are free to leave the prison island of Crowstone. But when a mysterious girl arrives at the Poacher’s Pocket with a pocketful of hagstones and accompanied by a will-o’-the-wisp, it seems another adventure has landed on their doorstep. And when Charlie goes missing, it’s up to Betty and Fliss to journey through misty marches, past wisp catchers and on to a secret island that doesn’t exist on any map. This sequel to the first book continues the enchanting adventures of the Widdershins sisters as they face new challenges and mysteries.
Character compass
Betty Widdershins
Willow
Charlie Widdershins
Fliss Widdershins
Spit
Granny Widdershins
Discussion points
What would you do if you found a magical map like the characters in the book? Where would you want it to take you?
How do the sisters in the story support each other during their adventure? Can you think of a time when you helped a sibling or a friend?
What do you think is the book’s message about family and loyalty?
How would you feel if you were on an adventure like the characters? What would be the most exciting part?
The characters in the book face scary situations. How do they find the courage to keep going? What do you do when you're afraid?
Tip: Role play these questions
Relate the magical elements in the book to your child's imagination. Ask them about their own magical world, what it would look like, and what kind of adventures they would have.
Discuss the importance of family and teamwork showcased in the book. Connect these themes to your child’s everyday life and ask them about times they felt supported by their family or friends.
Use the settings in the book to inspire creativity. You might draw maps or create stories about magical places, encouraging your child to detail what makes each place special.
Encourage your child to describe how they might feel in the various situations the characters face, fostering empathy and emotional understanding.
Discuss the problem-solving strategies the characters use in the book. Prompt your child to come up with alternative solutions to the challenges the characters face.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'A Sprinkle of Sorcery,' the characters often rely on teamwork to overcome obstacles and solve mysteries. This collaborative effort is key to their success throughout their adventure.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working together with their peers in school projects or in sports, understanding that cooperation can lead to achieving common goals more effectively.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonists face various challenges and dangers, but they show courage and determination to keep going. This bravery helps them to navigate through difficult situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of facing their fears and standing up to challenges, whether it's trying out for a school play, standing up against bullying, or dealing with a tough exam.
Example Lesson: Creativity as a problem-solving tool
Explanation: The characters in the book often use their imagination and creative thinking to solve puzzles and escape risky situations. Their ingenuity is a crucial element in their journey.
Real-World Application: Children learn that thinking outside the box can help them tackle everyday problems and see solutions in places they might not initially consider.
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: The journey in 'A Sprinkle of Sorcery' is fraught with setbacks and challenges, yet the characters persist, emphasizing the importance of not giving up despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that perseverance is crucial when dealing with academic challenges, learning new skills, or pursuing any long-term goals.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: Characters in the story make missteps and face the consequences, but they learn valuable lessons from these experiences which aid their growth and success.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that mistakes are opportunities for learning and growth, and not just something to be feared or ashamed of. This can encourage them to try new activities and learn without fear of failure.