Boy in Darkness
#2 in Gormenghast Series
What’s inside...
The protagonist of Gormenghast, Titus Groan tires of his dreary palace life and escapes for adventure but he is captured by two unsavoury characters who present him to an even less savoury character in this intense classic gothic thriller. Titus Groan, in his desire to leave the senseless ritual of Gormenghast, becomes trapped in a desert of grey space. While there is no sign of life, something stirs below the ground. Something alone and alive. Something that smiles very gently to itself as it sits upon its throne, waiting patiently. A master of the macabre and a traveller through the deeper and darker chasms of the imagination. - The Times. A twentieth century masterpiece from the author of the Gormenghast books, now published in its own right, complete with illustrations.
Character compass
Titus Groan
The Lamb
Hyena
The Goat
Discussion points
What do you think the boy felt when he was in the darkness? How would you feel in a similar situation?
Why do you think the animals in the story behaved the way they did? What do their actions tell us about them?
If you were the boy in the story, how would you try to escape the darkness? What would be your plan?
What lessons can we learn from the boy's journey and experiences in the story?
How do the illustrations in the book make you feel? Do they change how you understand the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and its characters, reinforcing that all feelings are valid.
Discuss the moral and emotional challenges faced by the boy, asking your child how they would handle similar situations.
Draw parallels between the boy's adventures and challenges your child may face, guiding them to find personal connections.
Use the illustrations in the book as a visual aid to delve deeper into the discussion, asking your child what they notice and how it adds to the story.
Highlight resilience and courage shown by the boy, prompting your child to think about times they have shown or can show similar qualities.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist in 'Boy in Darkness' demonstrates resilience as he escapes from daunting challenges and oppressive environments.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain determined and resourceful when facing personal obstacles, whether in school or interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Understanding identity and self-worth
Explanation: Throughout his journey, the boy grapples with his identity, which helps him understand his inherent value beyond his royal status.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of self-discovery and valuing oneself not based on external validation, but on personal traits and moral integrity.
Example Lesson: The importance of confronting fears
Explanation: The boy's journey is filled with moments where he must face his fears to progress, showing courage and growth.
Real-World Application: Children can understand that facing fears, though challenging, is essential for personal growth and overcoming life's hurdles.
Example Lesson: Empathy for others
Explanation: As the boy encounters various characters, his interactions teach him about understanding and empathy.
Real-World Application: This highlights for children how to empathize with peers and others who might be different or going through difficult times.