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Dreamquake: Book Two of the Dreamhunter Duet

#2 in Dreamhunter Duet Series

3.92
on Goodreads (2,981)

What’s inside...

The dreamhunting began as a beautiful thing, when Tziga Hame discovered that he could enter the Place and share the dreams he found there with other people. But Tziga Hame has disappeared and Laura, his daughter, knows that the art of projecting dreams has turned sour. On St. Lazarus's Eve, when elite citizens gather at the Rainbow Opera to experience the sweet dream of Homecoming, Laura, determined to show them the truth, plunges them into the nightmare used to control the convict workers. The event marks the first blow in the battle for control of the Place, the source of dreams. Then, when Laura's cousin, Rose, uncovers evidence that the government has been building a secret rail line deep into the Place, Laura follows it to find out what lies at its end. As she struggles to counter the government's sinister plans, a deeper mystery surfaces, a puzzle only Laura can unravel, a puzzle having to do with the very nature of the Place. What is the Place, after all? And what does it want from her?   Inventive and richly imagined, Elizabeth Knox's dramatic conclusion will satisfy readers - whether or not they've read Book One.

Why read this book

  • Explores complex themes through captivating fantasy.
  • Strengthens emotional understanding and empathy.
  • Encourages resilience and persistence in adversity.
  • Enhances imagination and creative thinking.
In series
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

12-17

Length

449 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Laura Hame
Rose Tiebold
Grace Tiebold
Tziga Hame
Chorley Tiebold
Cas Doran

Discussion points

How do you think Laura felt when she had to make tough decisions? What would you have done in her place?
What do you think the 'Place' represents in the story? Is there a place you go to feel safe or inspired?
Why is it important for Laura and the other characters to understand and protect their dreams?
Can dreams change the way we see the world? How did they change things for the characters in the book?
What do you think about the relationships between the characters? How do they help each other grow?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the emotional and moral aspects of the story by relating it to their own experiences. Ask them to imagine themselves in the characters' situations, and explore the decisions they would make. Discuss the significance of dreams and aspirations, and how they influence our lives. Lastly, highlight the importance of cooperation and friendship as seen in the relationships between characters.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The importance of courage and perseverance
Explanation: Throughout 'Dreamquake,' the protagonist Laura demonstrates courage and perseverance in the face of uncertainty and danger as she navigates the complexities of the Place and her family’s legacy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges with bravery and determination, understanding that persevering through difficulties is a valuable life skill.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision-making
Explanation: Laura is often faced with tough choices where she must weigh her own desires against what is right. Her decisions impact those around her, highlighting the consequences of one's actions.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to consider the outcomes of their actions on others and encourage them to make choices that are not only good for them but also for the greater good.
Example Lesson: The value of compassion and empathy
Explanation: As Laura interacts with various characters, both in dreams and in reality, she learns to understand and empathize with their feelings and situations, which shapes her actions and growth.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to empathize with peers and adults, understanding that everyone has different experiences and feelings, which is crucial in building respectful and caring relationships.
Example Lesson: Responsibility towards others
Explanation: Laura takes on significant responsibilities that affect not just her own life but the lives of others within the community, understanding the impact of her role in society.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being responsible and contributing positively to their community.
Example Lesson: Importance of truth and honesty
Explanation: In a world full of secrets and lies, Laura's pursuit of truth is a central theme. Her determination to uncover and reveal the truth has a liberating effect on herself and others.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of honesty in all their dealings and understand how truthfulness can lead to personal and communal freedom and relief.