Death Sworn
#1 in Death Sworn series
on Goodreads (7,238)
What’s inside...
When Ileni lost her magic, she lost everything: her place in society, her purpose in life, and the man she had expected to spend her life with. So when the Elders sent her to be magic tutor to a secret sect of assassins, she went willingly, even though the last two tutors had died under mysterious circumstances.
But beneath the assassins’ caves, Ileni will discover a new place and a new purpose… and a new and dangerous love. She will struggle to keep her lost magic a secret while teaching it to her deadly students, and to find out what happened to the two tutors who preceded her. But what she discovers will change not only her future, but the future of her people, the assassins… and possibly the entire world.
Why read this book
- Engaging fantasy narrative enchants and captivates young readers.
- Develops critical thinking through complex characters and plot.
- Strengthens reading skills with rich, descriptive language.
- Encourages exploration of themes like loyalty and bravery.
Character compass
Ileni
Sorin
The Master
Discussion points
How do you think Ileni’s feelings change throughout the story, and what events influence her feelings the most?
What does loyalty mean to the characters in 'Death Sworn', and how do their ideas of loyalty affect their actions?
Why is it important for Ileni to find her own strength and how does this journey affect those around her?
How do different characters in the book handle secrets and what impact does this have on their relationships and choices?
If you were Ileni, how would you have approached the challenges she faced?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences to Ileni’s challenges, helping them connect deeply with the character’s journey.
Discuss the moral dilemmas Ileni faces to enhance critical thinking about right and wrong, and the complexities of making difficult choices.
Explore the theme of trust and betrayal with your child to help them understand different perspectives and the consequences of actions.
Ask your child to predict outcomes at various points in the story to foster engagement and active reading, followed by reflections on the actual outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of critical thinking
Explanation: In 'Death Sworn,' the protagonist, Ileni, constantly questions her own beliefs and the motives of those around her, navigating through mysteries and deceit.
Real-World Application: Children can apply critical thinking by questioning information presented to them, analyzing its validity before forming an opinion or making a decision.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Despite facing challenges and her waning magical powers, Ileni perseveres in her quest for truth and justice, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to persist in their endeavors—whether in academics, sports, or personal goals—even when faced with obstacles.
Example Lesson: Understanding and navigating complex relationships
Explanation: The evolving relationship between Ileni and her assassin instructor, Sorin, shows the complexities and dynamics of trust and loyalty.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of empathy, communication, and trust in building and sustaining relationships.
Example Lesson: Moral ambiguity and making ethical decisions
Explanation: Ileni’s journey highlights the difficulties in distinguishing right from wrong in a world where moral lines are often blurred.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that real-life decisions aren’t always straightforward and that ethical thinking requires consideration of multiple perspectives.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up for one's beliefs
Explanation: Ileni’s daring actions to seek justice, despite the risks, illustrate the courage it takes to stand up for one’s convictions.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of advocating for themselves and others, and the impact of standing up for what they believe is right.