Bewitching: The Kendra Chronicles
#2 of 4 in Kendra Chronicles Series
on Goodreads (10,521)
What’s inside...
Kendra Hilferty, the witch from Beastly, reflects on her eternal life, recounting her origins as a witch and the ways in which she has tried to use her powers for good over the centuries, often with unintended consequences. Through the creative storytelling of Alex Flinn, Bewitching intertwines Kendra's experiences with classic fairy tales such as Hansel and Gretel, The Princess and the Pea, and The Little Mermaid, presenting them with a fresh twist in a modern retelling of Cinderella. In this version, the 'ugly' stepsister defies expectations. Filled with dark twists, humorous turns, and surprising outcomes, Bewitching is a must-read for fans of fairy tales, fantasy, and Alex Flinn's unique narrative style. Bewitching can indeed be a beast.
Character compass
Kendra Hilferty
Emma
Lisette
Discussion points
How do you think Kendra’s past experiences shape her decisions in the story?
What lessons can we learn about forgiveness and understanding from Kendra's interactions with other characters?
If you had magical powers like Kendra, how would you choose to use them?
How do the different settings influence the mood and actions of the characters?
Why is it important to consider different perspectives before making a judgment about someone?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show genuine interest in your child’s responses, and share your own thoughts to deepen the discussion.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Kendra’s situation, fostering empathy and critical thinking.
Discuss the various settings in the book and how they impact the story, relating it to how different environments influence personal feelings and decisions.
Highlight the importance of looking at situations from multiple angles, encouraging open-mindedness.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life situations your child might encounter to help them apply the lessons learned from Kendra’s story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and Acceptance
Explanation: In 'Bewitching,' the character Kendra teaches us about acceptance, as she aids characters struggling with their own perceived imperfections. This helps foster empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more accepting of others' differences and to offer help without judgment, as they navigate relationships with peers at school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: The narrative illustrates how the characters' choices have consequences. For instance, Kendra's decision to use her powers affects other characters significantly.
Real-World Application: Kids can reflect on how their actions impact others around them, underlining the importance of thinking before acting.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Overcoming Challenges
Explanation: Characters in the story often face adversities, which they must overcome. This highlights the theme of resilience.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to persevere through difficulties, whether it's tackling a tough subject in school or resolving conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: The Value of Inner Beauty
Explanation: The book often juxtaposes inner beauty against external appearances, particularly through Kendra's interactions with others.
Real-World Application: Teaches the importance of valuing character and kindness over superficial traits, promoting a healthy self-image and respect for others.