Broken Ground: Spirit Animals: Fall of the Beasts
#2 of 7 in Spirit Animals Series
on Goodreads (3,371)
What’s inside...
A new threat faces the world of Erdas in this continuation of the New York Times bestselling series. Something ancient and evil has awoken from beneath the world of Erdas. Shrouded in shadow and older than memory, just a sliver of its power can destroy with a touch. Even the spirit animal bond, the sacred link between humans and animals that keeps Erdas in balance, is under threat. Four young heroes, Conor, Abeke, Meilin, and Rollan, are determined to stop it. Together with their spirit animals, they embark on a desperate journey that takes them deep underground and to the far corners of the world. As friends and allies fall around them, the four have no choice but to push forward and confront this darkness. If they stop to look back, they'll see the truth: Evil already has them surrounded.
Character compass
Conor
Meilin
Abeke
Rollan
Discussion points
What qualities do you admire in the main characters and why?
How do the characters in the book demonstrate teamwork? Can you think of a time when you worked with others to solve a problem?
What are some challenges the characters face and how do they overcome them?
How do you think the setting impacts the story? What would change if it happened somewhere else?
If you could possess any of the spirit animals' powers, which one would you choose and what would you do with it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s themes or a favorite scene to make it comfortable for your child to open up. Encourage your child to express their opinions and feelings about the story, and relate the book’s situations to real-life experiences. Praise their insights to build confidence in expressing their thoughts and ideas.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The characters in 'Broken Ground' must work together to overcome various challenges, showcasing the power of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to value each team member's contributions.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and duty
Explanation: The protagonist shows a strong sense of duty to protect the community, reinforcing the importance of responsibility.
Real-World Application: Kids can take this lesson into daily life by taking responsibility for their chores, homework, and in caring for pets or younger siblings.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters frequently face dangerous situations but persevere, demonstrating bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own fears and challenges, whether it be trying out for a sports team, standing up for a friend, or tackling a difficult subject in school.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: The book features a range of characters from different backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and respect for diversity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and embrace differences among their peers and in their communities.
Example Lesson: Importance of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters encounter setbacks but continue to strive towards their goals, emphasizing persistence.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persisting with tasks or goals despite difficulties, be it in learning a new skill or improving in a subject at school.