Descendant of the Crane
on Goodreads (11,810)
What’s inside...
In 'Descendant of the Crane' by Joan He, Princess Hesina of Yan is determined to uncover the truth behind her father's suspicious death, which the imperial doctors claim was natural. As she navigates a complex political landscape filled with deception, she discovers that ideals can be deadly in a broken system. Hesina faces dizzying twists and realizes no one is innocent, including her father, as she struggles to prevent further bloodshed.
Age
12-17
Length
413 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Hesina
Sanjing
Lilian
Akira
Caiyan
Yan Caiyan
Yan Hesina
Yan Sanjing
Xia Zhong
Fei Rou
Yan Lilian
Discussion points
How did Hesina's quest for truth influence her actions throughout the story?
What does justice mean to you, and how do you see it depicted in the book?
How do the different characters in the story demonstrate loyalty or betrayal?
What role do the sooths play in the society described in the book, and why is this significant?
How can we apply the lessons learned from Hesina’s journey to our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Hesina’s shoes and discuss how they would react in similar situations.
Discuss the moral dilemmas presented in the book and what your child thinks about the decisions made by the characters.
Explore the concept of justice and fairness with your child, relating it back to their own experiences and the societal values depicted in the book.
Use examples from the book to talk about the importance of truth and the consequences of deceit.
Promote empathy by discussing the different perspectives and motivations of each character in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of justice
Explanation: In 'Descendant of the Crane', the protagonist, Princess Hesina, becomes a queen and is determined to find her father's murderer, showcasing her commitment to justice.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the significance of fairness and standing up for what is right, applying these principles at school or in interactions with peers.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Hesina faces numerous challenges and betrayals, yet she perseveres in her quest for truth and justice, embodying resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persisting through difficulties, whether it's struggling with a tough assignment or coping with personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: The complexity of moral choices
Explanation: Hesina often encounters complex decisions where the line between right and wrong is blurred, which underscores the complexity of moral choices.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that making ethical decisions can sometimes be complicated and requires careful thought, which is applicable in situations like sharing and collaborating with others.
Example Lesson: The impact of leadership
Explanation: As a young ruler, Hesina’s leadership style and decisions play a crucial role in the narrative, highlighting how leadership can greatly affect others.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to take initiative in leadership roles in group activities or class projects, understanding the responsibility and impact their decisions can have on others.