A Tale of Magic
#1 in A Tale of Magic. Series
on Goodreads (23,898)
What’s inside...
A new series set in the Land of Stories universe from the #1 New York Times bestselling author, Chris Colfer, perfect for new and old fans!
Fourteen-year-old Brystal Evergreen has always known she was destined for great things--that is, if she can survive the oppressive Southern Kingdom. Her only escape are books, but since it's illegal for women to read in her country, she has to find creative ways of acquiring them. Working as a maid at her local library gives her the perfect excuse to be near them and allows her to sneak a few titles home when no one is looking. But one day Brystal uncovers a secret section of the library and finds a book about magic that changes her life forever.
Magic is despised and outlawed throughout the world--Brystal is well aware of the severe consequences the book may bring--but her curiosity gets the best of her. By reading some of the text aloud, strange phenomena begin to occur and Brystal discovers she is capable of magic! And the more she practices it, the harder it becomes to hide.
After being caught and convicted, Brystal is saved by a mysterious woman named Madame Weatherberry. The woman takes Brystal to her Academy of Magic and teaches her to become a fairy. While Brystal studies magic and befriends the other students, Madame Weatherberry is suddenly called away on suspicious matters. When she doesn't return, Brystal and her friends work together to find and save their instructor. Along the way, the students discover Madame Weatherberry's true intentions for the academy are not what they seem, and they come face to face with a sinister plot that puts the fate of the world, and the fate of magic itself, in grave danger...
Why read this book
- Explores themes of bravery and self-discovery.
- Encourages resilience and empowerment amongst young readers.
- Stimulates imagination through magical and fantastical elements.
- Supports emotional and moral development.
Character compass
Brystal Lynn Evergreen
Emerelda
Lucy Goose
Xanthous
Madame Weatherberry
Justice Evergreen
Discussion points
How do you think Brystal felt when she discovered her magical abilities, and why?
What role do you think courage and friendship play in Brystal's adventures?
If you had magical powers like Brystal, how would you use them to help others?
What did you learn about different perspectives from the characters who disagreed in the story?
How can we apply the lessons from the book to our everyday lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use examples from Brystal’s journey to discuss the importance of believing in oneself, even when others might doubt your abilities.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the characters' challenges and their own experiences at school or with friends.
Discuss the moral dilemmas presented in the book and ask what your child would have done in each character's place.
Highlight the significance of teamwork as shown in the book, and relate it to the child’s interactions in sports or group projects.
Ask your child to imagine their own magical world. What rules would govern it? What kind of magical creatures would live there? This can lead to a deeper understanding of the author's creative process.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empowerment through knowledge
Explanation: In 'A Tale of Magic', the protagonist, Brystal, discovers a hidden library that empowers her to change her life and fight against oppressive forces.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of education and seeking knowledge to improve their circumstances and stand up for their rights.
Example Lesson: The value of compassion and understanding
Explanation: Throughout the story, Brystal learns to understand and empathize with characters from different backgrounds, fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to embrace diversity and practice empathy in their interactions with others, promoting inclusive behavior.
Example Lesson: Courage to challenge injustices
Explanation: As Brystal faces societal injustices, she gathers the courage to challenge the status quo and fight for fairness.
Real-World Application: It instills in children the resolve to stand up against wrongdoing and advocate for justice in their communities.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Brystal allies with a diverse group of friends who work together to overcome obstacles, highlighting the strength found in teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, enhancing their social and collaborative skills.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through adversity
Explanation: Despite numerous challenges, Brystal perseveres in her quest, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence and determination in overcoming difficulties in their own lives.