Don't Mess with Angels
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
Don't Mess with Angels is a gripping novel by Susan Gates, featuring a Triffid-style plant that takes over a graveyard. The story unfolds in Thornley churchyard, where a stone angel sits atop an old gravestone. According to local legend, if someone touches the angel's foot at midnight and cries 'Arise Mad Lord Jago,' he will come to life. Initially skeptical, Alice finds herself in a terrifying situation as what seemed like a laughable legend turns into a horrifying reality. Susan Gates is also the author of Raiders, which was commended for the Carnegie Medal.
Age
8-12
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the angels in the story wanted to help the main character?
How would you feel if you met an angel like the ones in the book?
What are some ways the angels in the story showed that they cared?
Can you think of any actions that show kindness, similar to the angels in 'Don't Mess with Angels'?
If you could ask an angel one question, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book and its themes to model in-depth thinking and openness.
Encourage your child to draw or act out their favorite scene. This can help them articulate their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to keep the conversation flowing and delve deeper.
Relate the book's messages to personal experiences or observable realities to make the discussion more relevant and engaging for your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Don't Mess with Angels,' the characters often face situations that urge them to put themselves in each other's shoes, understanding different perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to consider the feelings and viewpoints of their peers, which can lead to more harmonious interactions at school and at home.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Honesty
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonists learn the value of being truthful, even when it's difficult, as honesty leads to trust and respect among the angels and humans alike.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the significance of being honest in their daily interactions, which fosters trust and strengthens relationships with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Challenges
Explanation: The characters in the book often encounter challenges that seem insurmountable, but with bravery and determination, they are able to overcome them.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their own challenges with courage, understanding that perseverance and resilience are key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: In the narrative, actions taken by the characters lead to various consequences, teaching them accountability for their decisions.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that their actions have effects, teaching them to think before acting and to take responsibility for their consequences.
Example Lesson: Value of Teamwork
Explanation: The characters often work together to solve problems, showing that teamwork can lead to success even in the most daunting of tasks.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of collaborating with others to achieve common goals, useful in group projects at school and other team-based activities.