Elfling: An Elves & Urchins Historical Fantasy for Teens
#1 of 2 in Elfling Series
on Goodreads (37)
What’s inside...
In a world of Victorian sensibilities and elvish mystique, 'Elfling' follows Sarah, a young street urchin who discovers her half-elf heritage. Thrust into a struggle between human industrial expansion and ancient elvish magic, Sarah navigates her identity and heritage while embarking on a quest to protect the last enchanted forests. Alongside misfit elves and urchins, she fights to preserve magic in an age of change. Meanwhile, Serapia Ravena, alone on the streets of London, seeks her father for survival. Uncovering his dark secret, Serapia's journey brings her face to face with her mysterious heritage, challenging her with themes of redemption, good versus evil, and second chances, in a tale reminiscent of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the Elfling characters to embark on their adventure?
How do the historical elements in the story compare to what you know about real-world history?
In what ways do the characters show courage or other positive traits?
How do the Elflings' relationships change throughout the book?
What lessons do you think the author wants us to learn from the Elflings' experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the world of Elflings and ask how they would respond in similar situations.
Discuss the ethical decisions characters make in the book and relate them to everyday life scenarios.
Highlight the importance of persistence by focusing on how the Elflings overcome obstacles.
Ask your child to draw parallels between the fantasy setting and our real world to deepen understanding and critical thinking.
Encourage your child to express what they felt at key moments in the story to foster empathy and emotional intelligence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Elfling', the protagonist confronts numerous challenges and threats in a world filled with inequality and strife, demonstrating bravery and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges, such as standing up to bullying, with courage and determination.
Example Lesson: The importance of compassion
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters engage in acts of kindness and empathy towards others, despite their differences or the conflicts that arise.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of understanding and caring for others, fostering a more inclusive and supportive peer environment.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and leadership
Explanation: The young characters in 'Elfling' often take on leadership roles, making decisions that affect not only themselves but their entire community.
Real-World Application: Children will understand the importance of responsible decision-making and the impact of their actions on others.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: The characters must collaborate and combine their strengths to overcome obstacles, illustrating the effectiveness of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to work cooperatively in group settings, be it in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Resilience through adversity
Explanation: The book's characters face serious challenges but learn to adapt and persevere, showing resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children realize that they can overcome difficulties and emerge stronger, fostering a growth mindset.