Fleshmarket
on Goodreads (452)
What’s inside...
Edinburgh, 1822. Young Robbie witnesses his mother's death during a public surgery by Dr. Knox. The trauma impacts his family, leading to poverty. As a teenager, Robbie helps provide dead bodies for Knox's research, believing Knox responsible for his mother's death. Driven by anger and grief, he plans revenge, but over time he seeks to understand Knox’s motives and find meaning in his mother's death.
Age
13-14
Length
210 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Robbie
Essie
Dr. Robert Knox
Discussion points
How did Robbie's experiences at the Fleshmarket influence his views on trust and vulnerability?
What are some of the ethical concerns raised in the book regarding medical practices of the era, and how do they compare to today?
In what ways do the characters in 'Fleshmarket' show resilience in the face of adversity?
Discuss the impact of loss and grief shown in the book. How do the characters cope differently with their pain?
What role does hope play in the story, and which characters embody this theme the most?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by sharing your own impressions of the book to create an open, communicative environment. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the story and its characters without fear of judgment. Highlight the historical context and discuss how it affects the characters' decisions and lifestyles. Use comparisons to modern times to help your child understand the differences and similarities. Lastly, acknowledge the book's complex themes, and reassure your child of your support in understanding difficult concepts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist Robbie endures significant hardships and loss but consistently strives to overcome these challenges. His journey exemplifies determination and persistence.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face difficult situations in their own lives with a similar spirit of resilience, understanding that perseverance can lead to overcoming personal adversities.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: Robbie's experiences bring him into contact with various characters who are also suffering, teaching him, and by extension the reader, the importance of empathy and compassion towards others.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to understand and share the feelings of others around them in school, among friends, or at home, fostering a more caring and inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: The importance of seeking justice
Explanation: Fueled by the injustices he witnesses, Robbie is driven to seek justice. This theme is a crucial part of the narrative, emphasizing the importance of standing up for what is right.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to stand up against unfairness, whether it's in their community, school, or even on a smaller scale like with siblings or friends.
Example Lesson: Historical awareness and appreciation
Explanation: Set in early 19th century Edinburgh, the book offers a glimpse into medical history and societal conditions of the time, educating the reader on historical context.
Real-World Application: This can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of history in children, encouraging them to explore more about the past and its impact on the present.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking about ethics in science and medicine
Explanation: The book delves into complex ethical questions about medical experimentation and body snatching, relevant to Robbie’s world and integral to the plot.
Real-World Application: It prompts children to think critically about the ethical implications of scientific advancement, fostering an early interest and understanding in ethics in science and medicine.