#8 in The Wings of Fire Series
Escaping Peril
What’s inside...
Peril has been loyal to Queen Scarlet, who used her fatal firescales to kill countless dragons in the SkyWing arena. Now, Peril is loyal to Clay, the only dragonet who has ever been her friend. So when Scarlet threatens Jade Mountain Academy, Peril sets off to find her former queen, stop her, and save the day, no matter what it takes. There's just one problem: a strangely persistent SeaWing, Turtle, insists on coming along, too. Turtle is worried about his friends, who left to search for Scarlet and haven't returned. Peril is worried that she might accidentally burn Turtle - or burn him on purpose, for being so annoying - and frustrated that she keeps saying and doing the wrong things. She can't escape her firescales, and she can't escape her reputation as the deadliest dragon in Pyrrhia. So when she's offered the chance to trade everything for a new life, Peril has to decide who she's really loyal to.
Discussion points
How did Peril's feelings about herself change throughout the story? What events led to these changes?
What do you think about the choices Peril made when faced with challenges? Would you have done anything differently?
Why is trust important in the relationships between the characters? Can you give an example from the book where trust was gained or lost?
How do the different dragon tribes handle conflict? What can we learn from their approaches?
What does courage mean to you? How did Peril show courage, and how can you apply that in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the themes of the book to their own experiences, fostering a deeper understanding and personal connection. Ask questions that draw parallels between the challenges faced by Peril and those your child might encounter, such as coping with identity or making difficult decisions. Utilize examples from the book to discuss the consequences of actions and the importance of trust and courage in real life. Promote empathy by exploring different characters' perspectives, asking your child how they might feel in similar situations. Encourage critical thinking by discussing the choices characters make and their outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding empathy
Explanation: In 'Escaping Peril,' Peril, the protagonist, learns to understand the feelings and perspectives of other dragons, despite her dangerous abilities.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and consider the feelings of others, fostering empathy and improving social interactions.
Example Lesson: The importance of self-acceptance
Explanation: Peril struggles with her identity and her powers, but learns to accept herself, recognizing her unique strengths and qualities.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to embrace their individuality and value themselves, despite their perceived flaws or differences.
Example Lesson: The value of courage in facing fears
Explanation: Throughout the story, Peril faces numerous challenges that test her bravery, helping her to overcome her own fears.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their fears and understand that courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.
Example Lesson: The impact of choices on consequences
Explanation: Peril’s decisions throughout the book illustrate how choices can lead to various consequences, both good and bad.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to consider the potential results of their actions and to make thoughtful decisions.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: As Peril makes mistakes, she learns from them and grows, showing resilience and the capacity to change.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that mistakes are a natural part of learning and personal growth.