Ender's Shadow (The Shadow Series)
#1 in The Shadow Series
on Goodreads (176,479)
What’s inside...
Orson Scott Card brings us back to the beginning of his brilliant Ender Quartet with 'Ender's Shadow', a parallel volume to 'Ender's Game'. This novel introduces Bean, known as one of the other child prodigies trained at Battle School to defend Earth against the alien Buggers. We follow Bean's journey from his tough upbringing on the streets of Rotterdam to his recruitment into Battle School, where he meets and aids Ender in the final battle. 'Ender's Shadow' expands and complements the original story, providing new insights and enhancing the events of 'Ender's Game'.
Character compass
Bean (Julian Delphiki)
Andrew 'Ender' Wiggin
Poke
Colonel Hyrum Graff
Sister Carlotta
Achilles De Flandres
Andrew Wiggin
"Bean"
Nikolai Delphiki
Volescu
Discussion points
How do you think Bean’s early experiences shaped his ability to survive and lead?
In what ways did Bean’s intelligence help and hinder him throughout the story?
What would you have done differently if you were in Bean's position in his interactions with other characters?
How do the themes of friendship and trust evolve in the story?
What is the significance of 'choosing one’s family' as portrayed in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with those of Bean, focusing on feelings and reactions in similar situations.
Discuss the moral and ethical dilemmas that Bean faces, asking your child what they would do and why.
Highlight the dynamics of teamwork and leadership displayed in the book, and relate them to real-life examples your child might encounter or have encountered.
Prior to discussing, let your child know that there are no right or wrong answers, promoting an open and explorative conversation atmosphere.
Ask your child to think about the different characters’ perspectives and motives, encouraging empathy and deeper understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'Ender's Shadow', the character Bean displays deep empathy despite his challenging circumstances, understanding others’ feelings and motivations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize and consider others' emotions and perspectives, fostering kindness and cooperation in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Strategic thinking and problem solving
Explanation: Bean's ability to think strategically and solve complex problems is a focal point of the story, showcasing how he navigates difficult situations.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach problems methodically, enhancing their critical thinking and decision-making skills in real-life scenarios.
Example Lesson: Resilience and adaptability
Explanation: Throughout the book, Bean faces numerous adversities but continually adapts and overcomes them, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of resilience, understanding that facing challenges is part of growth and learning to adapt is crucial.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The story emphasizes the success achieved when characters collaborate and work as a team, highlighting the strengths brought by each individual.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children the value of cooperative efforts and how working together can achieve greater results than working alone.
Example Lesson: Self-awareness and personal growth
Explanation: Bean’s journey includes self-discovery and personal development, learning about his own capabilities and limits.
Real-World Application: It inspires children to engage in self-reflection, understand their own strengths and weaknesses, and commit to personal improvement.