As the Shadow Rises: The Age of Darkness
#2 of 3 in The Age of Darkness Series
on Goodreads (3,897)
What’s inside...
In the second installment of the Age of Darkness series, kingdoms fall to a doomsday cult, the magical Graced face persecution, and an ancient power looms. As the world nears its prophesized end, Anton's visions reveal a plan to stop the darkness. Jude, the disgraced Keeper of the Order, struggles with his feelings for Anton while trying to aid the Prophet. The Pale Hand assassin seeks her undead sister, risking the world's destruction. Meanwhile, Prince Hassan forms a risky pact to reclaim his throne. As forces of light and darkness collide, alliances are tested and the end of the world begins. The trilogy is hailed as the next big fantasy series, perfect for fans of Throne of Glass and Children of Blood and Bone.
Character compass
Anton
Beru
Hassan
Jude
Ephyra
The Hierophant
Discussion points
How do the characters in the book demonstrate courage and perseverance?
What decision would you have made if you were in the shoes of any character? Why?
How do the relationships between characters evolve throughout the story?
What themes in the book stand out to you and why do they resonate with you?
Can you identify any symbols in the story and discuss their significance?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to summarize the book in their own words, fostering a strong grasp of the narrative.
Encourage your child to relate the challenges faced by the characters to personal experiences or situations they are familiar with.
Discuss the moral implications of the characters' decisions to enhance ethical reasoning.
Use examples from the book to discuss broader themes like friendship, sacrifice, and bravery.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'As the Shadow Rises: The Age of Darkness', characters must collaborate and rely on each other’s strengths to overcome challenges, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working together with their peers in school projects or sports, learning how to cooperate and value each other's input.
Example Lesson: Responsibility for one's actions
Explanation: The characters in the book face consequences for their choices, teaching readers about accountability and the impact of their actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that their actions have results, encouraging them to think carefully before making decisions and to take responsibility for their outcomes.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, characters encounter various obstacles but persist in their goals, illustrating the theme of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to persevere through their own challenges, whether they are academic difficulties, social conflicts, or personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: The value of diversity
Explanation: The ensemble of characters in the book comes from diverse backgrounds, showing how different perspectives can lead to richer solutions and outcomes.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to embrace and celebrate diversity in their community and learn to appreciate the strengths that different cultures bring.
Example Lesson: The power of sacrifice
Explanation: Characters in the book sometimes make sacrifices for the greater good, highlighting the importance of selflessness.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of putting others' needs before their own in situations where their sacrifice can benefit others, fostering a sense of empathy and community.