Centaur Rising (Christy Ottaviano Books)
on Goodreads (402)
What’s inside...
One night during the Perseid meteor shower, Arianne thinks she sees a shooting star land in the fields surrounding her family's horse farm. About a year later, one of their horses gives birth to a baby centaur. The family has enough attention already as Arianne's six-year-old brother was born with birth defects caused by an experimental drug—the last thing they need is more scrutiny. But their clients soon start growing suspicious. Just how long is it possible to keep a secret? And what will happen if the world finds out? At a time when so many novels are set in other worlds, Jane Yolen imagines what it would be like if a creature from another world came to ours in this thoughtfully written, imaginative novel, Centaur Rising. A Christy Ottaviano Book
Age
8-12
Length
271 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ariana Grace
Kai
Mrs. Grace
Robbie Grace
Dr. Frederic Herks
Discussion points
How did Arianne's experience with the centaur change her perspective on her family and the challenges they face?
What similarities and differences do you see between your life and the magical events at the farm?
If you had a magical creature as a friend, what qualities would you like the creature to have? Why?
How do the characters in 'Centaur Rising' show bravery? Can you think of a time when you were brave?
What lessons about friendship and acceptance can we learn from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your thoughts on the magical elements of the story and ask your child to imagine their own magical creature. Discuss each character's actions and decisions, and relate them to real-life scenarios your child might face, such as making friends or dealing with change. Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book’s events, and guide them to draw parallels to their own experiences. Lastly, highlight the importance of empathy and understanding shown throughout the story, asking your child how they can apply these in their daily interactions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Centaur Rising,' characters exhibit empathy by caring for a centaur, showing understanding despite his differences.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of embracing diversity and understanding others, applicable in school or social settings.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The protagonist's care for the mythical creature illustrates themes of responsibility and accountability.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to take ownership of their duties, be it in chores, schoolwork, or relationships.
Example Lesson: The Power of Belief
Explanation: The story propels through the belief in magical creatures, highlighting how belief can lead to wondrous discoveries.
Real-World Application: Instills the value of believing in one’s own abilities and the unseen, fostering confidence and imagination.
Example Lesson: Coping with Challenges
Explanation: Characters face unexpected challenges, teaching resilience and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Equips children with strategies to navigate difficulties in their lives, promoting adaptability and resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Bonding
Explanation: The family in the story comes together through their experiences with the centaur, emphasizing the strength of familial ties.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value and invest in family relationships, fostering a supportive home environment.