Cinders and Sparrows
on Goodreads (1,779)
What’s inside...
A suspenseful tale of witches, family, and magic, 'A Bank Street Best Book of the Year' follows twelve-year-old orphan Zita Brydgeborn as she inherits a distant castle and becomes embroiled in a centuries-old battle between good and evil. Zita must navigate her new life as the last of a powerful dynasty of witches, learning spells and making allies to save the home she's always hoped for. Enchanting and unforgettable, this story will captivate readers of all ages.
Age
8-12
Length
368 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Zita Brydgeborn
Minnifer Crisp
Bram
Mrs. Cantanker
Discussion points
What do you think Zita learned about herself throughout her journey in the castle?
How did Zita's relationships with the other characters influence her decisions and growth in the story?
What role does magic play in the story, and how does it affect the characters' lives?
How would you feel if you were in Zita's situation, and what choices might you have made differently?
What do you think is the main message of 'Cinders and Sparrows', and why do you think that?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the magical elements in the story to real-life situations by asking how they might use their 'magic' or unique abilities to handle challenges.
Discuss the importance of resilience and resourcefulness as demonstrated by Zita, helping your child connect these traits to their personal experiences.
Use the rich, atmospheric descriptions in the book to inspire your child’s imagination and ask them to visualize and describe the castle or their own magical setting.
Highlight the relationships between characters and ask your child about their thoughts on trust and friendship in their own lives, drawing parallels to the story.
Engage in a conversation about the lessons learned from the story, and ask how these lessons might apply in your child’s school or social activities.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Zita, faces numerous challenges but consistently shows bravery and resolve. Her courage helps her navigate the mysterious and sometimes dangerous corridors of the Sparrow's End manor.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of facing their fears, whether it be trying out for a school play, standing up to a bully, or dealing with a new situation.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Throughout her journey, Zita relies on the friendships she builds with the inhabitants of the manor. These relationships, based on mutual trust and respect, prove pivotal in overcoming the obstacles she faces.
Real-World Application: This emphasizes the importance of building strong, trustworthy relationships and relying on friends during challenging times.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Zita often encounters puzzles and mysteries in the manor that require her to think critically and creatively to solve.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply similar problem-solving skills in their own lives, such as working through a difficult homework assignment or resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery and personal growth
Explanation: As Zita uncovers secrets of her lineage and the manor, she also learns more about her own strengths and capabilities, growing more confident in her abilities.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore their own talents and interests, and develop a stronger sense of self.
Example Lesson: Justice and doing the right thing
Explanation: Zita strives to correct the injustices of the past involving her family and the manor, demonstrating a strong moral compass.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of fairness and the impact of their actions on others, encouraging them to always strive to do what is right.