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#3 in The Five Kingdoms Series

Crystal Keepers Five Kingdoms Book

4.46
on Goodreads (11,844)

What’s inside...

The Five Kingdoms series continues in the third installment, Crystal Keepers. In this book, Cole Randolph and his friends seek to rescue his friends from slavery and free the Outskirts from the clutches of the High King. The team has to traverse various kingdoms, including the futuristic world of Zeropolis that is filled with robots and humans. Cole has to overcome numerous obstacles, including treacherous terrains, villains and dubious allies, to achieve his goals.
In series
Series reading
Sequential
Age
9-13
Length
479 pages
Text complexity

Discussion points

What do you think Cole learned about friendship and courage throughout his journey?
How do the different kingdoms in the story compare to each other, and which one would you like to visit?
If you had to face one of the challenges that Cole faced, how would you handle it?
Can you think of a time when you had to work together with friends to solve a problem like Cole did?
What do you think is the most important message the author is trying to convey through the adventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the Five Kingdoms and reflect on how they would feel and react in similar situations. Use comparisons between the book’s events and real-life experiences to make the discussion relatable. Highlight the themes of friendship, bravery, and problem-solving to steer the conversation towards positive life lessons.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: In 'Crystal Keepers', the protagonist, Cole, demonstrates perseverance as he embarks on a quest to rescue his friends who are imprisoned in a mysterious world. Despite facing numerous challenges, Cole's determination never wavers.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by staying determined and persistent in their academic studies or personal goals, even when they encounter difficulties.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, Cole works closely with new friends who each have unique skills that contribute to their overall success. This collaboration is crucial for overcoming the obstacles they face.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of cooperating and valuing each person's contribution in group settings such as school projects or sports teams.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: Cole’s journey is filled with unknowns and uncertainties. His courage to continue, despite not knowing what lies ahead, is a central theme in 'Crystal Keepers'.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace new experiences, whether it's moving to a new school, trying out a new sport, or making new friends, understanding that it's okay to feel uncertain but important to keep moving forward.
Example Lesson: The power of clever thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: In many situations in the book, Cole must use his wits and logical reasoning to solve puzzles and navigate dangerous scenarios.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills in their daily life, understanding that sometimes a creative or thoughtful approach can resolve what might seem like an impossible problem.