A Study in Drowning
#1 in A Study in Drowning Series
on Goodreads (77,566)
What’s inside...
Effy Sayre has always believed in fairy tales and is haunted by visions of the Fairy King since childhood. Her cherished copy of Angharad, a book about a mortal girl's love and destruction of the Fairy King, keeps her going. When a contest to redesign author Emrys Myrddin’s estate is announced, Effy sees it as her destiny. She faces challenges at the dilapidated Hiraeth Manor, including resistance from Preston Héloury, a scholar who thinks Myrddin is a fraud. As they uncover clues about Myrddin’s past, dark forces, both mortal and magical, threaten them and the truth could lead to their downfall.
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when they faced challenges?
What would you do if you were in the main character's situation?
What are some of the important lessons the main character learned by the end of the story?
How do the friendships in the book impact the events that unfold?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to the main character?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story, relating it to their own experiences.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the book to build anticipation and involvement.
Discuss the decisions made by the characters and explore alternative choices and potential outcomes with your child.
Identify and talk about the moral of the story, and how it applies to everyday life.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques to make the story come alive and maintain your child's interest.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'A Study in Drowning', the protagonist learns to understand and feel the emotions of a new friend who comes from a different background. This insight is developed through various shared experiences that depict the importance of listening and showing compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by being open to making friends from diverse backgrounds and trying to understand their perspectives and feelings in school or in their communities.
Example Lesson: Courage and Facing Fears
Explanation: The story showcases the main character overcoming their fear of water after a traumatic event. Through determination and support from friends and family, the character bravely faces this fear.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to confront their own fears, whether it's speaking in front of the class, trying out for a sports team, or overcoming a personal challenge.
Example Lesson: Importance of Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist encounters several setbacks but continues to push forward. This tenacity is a central theme, highlighting the rewards of persistence in difficult times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to keep trying in the face of academic challenges, such as mastering a new skill or subject, understanding that persistence often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: The bonds between the characters in 'A Study in Drowning' play a crucial role in overcoming challenges. The protagonist learns the importance of supportive friendships and helping each other in times of need.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to value and nurture their friendships, understanding that a good friend can provide emotional support and practical help.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: The book illustrates how the protagonist, despite facing numerous obstacles, grows stronger and more capable. This transformation is portrayed through various trials that test the character's resolve.
Real-World Application: Children can relate this to bouncing back from their own setbacks, be it in sports, school results or personal relationships, learning to adapt and emerge stronger.