Double Spell
on Goodreads (203)
What’s inside...
Twins Jane and Elizabeth, both twelve years old, find themselves inexplicably drawn to a tattered old-fashioned doll in an antique store on a cold wet spring Saturday. After purchasing the doll, strange occurrences begin to unfold, and a young girl from the past seems to be reaching out to them. As the twins delve into the history of the doll, they come terrifyingly close to the supernatural, ultimately solving a mysterious and thrilling mystery. This novel, Janet Lunn's first, has been republished in a fresh, beautiful edition.
Age
8-12
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to find a magical antique mirror like the twins in 'Double Spell'? How would you use it?
If you discovered something magical, who would you tell first and why?
The twins in the story experience many adventures. Which adventure was your favorite and what would you do in that situation?
How did the twins' relationship change throughout the book? What can we learn about teamwork and support from them?
What do you think is the most important lesson taught by 'Double Spell'? How can we apply this lesson in our everyday lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions to encourage your child to think deeply about the plot and the characters, rather than just recalling facts.
Draw parallels between the adventures in the book and your child’s experiences to make the conversation more relatable.
Let your child express what they would do differently if they were in the twins' shoes; this can help develop their problem-solving skills.
Discuss the characters' feelings and decisions to understand your child's perspectives and emotional insight.
Share your own thoughts and feelings about the story to model thoughtful analysis and show that their opinions are valued.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and bravery
Explanation: In 'Double Spell,' the twins face their fears when they encounter the mysterious ghost, showcasing their bravery as they seek to uncover the truth behind the supernatural happenings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their own fears and challenges in daily life, understanding that courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in spite of it.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity and perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, the twin sisters demonstrate a relentless pursuit of knowledge as they delve deeper into the history of the ghost and the twin dolls. Their curiosity drives the story forward, emphasizing the importance of seeking knowledge.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be inquisitive and persistent in their educational and personal pursuits, reinforcing the idea that perseverance often leads to discovery and learning.
Example Lesson: Understanding and empathy
Explanation: As the girls learn more about the ghost’s background, they begin to empathize with her, transforming fear into understanding. This shift in perspective is a key development in the narrative.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to empathize with others who are different or misunderstood, promoting a more inclusive and supportive social environment.
Example Lesson: The strength of sibling bonds and teamwork
Explanation: The twin sisters in 'Double Spell' rely on each other and work together to solve the mystery of the ghost and the dolls. Their collaboration is central to their success.
Real-World Application: This lesson underscores the importance of cooperation and strong family ties, encouraging children to value and lean on their siblings and peers during challenging times or collaborative tasks.