Ghosts of the Shadow Market
#1 of 2 in Ghosts of the Shadow Market Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (40,415)
What’s inside...
The Shadow Market serves as a hub for supernatural beings like faeries, werewolves, warlocks, and vampires to trade magical objects, make dark deals, and share secrets. Brother Zachariah, a frequent visitor and a Silent Brother from the City of Bones, navigates this murky world. He was previously the Shadowhunter Jem Carstairs, and his enduring love for the warlock Tessa Gray shapes his experiences. The narrative unfolds across dark dealings, festive celebrations, and pivotal moments for characters like Anna Lightwood and Matthew Fairchild, as well as significant events like Valentine Morgenstern's sinister purchase and the safeguarding of a young Jace Wayland's soul. Co-written by a team of esteemed authors, this collection reveals the haunted and hidden stories of the Shadow Market. A hardback collection of all ten Ghosts of the Shadow Market stories, including two brand new ones, explores characters from Cassandra Clare's internationally bestselling Shadowhunters series. Brother Zachariah, as a Silent Brother from the City of Bones, visits the Shadow Market, where Downworlders trade magical objects, make dark bargains, and whisper forbidden secrets. Once a Shadowhunter named Jem Carstairs, his enduring love for warlock Tessa Gray leads him through a world of dark dealings, doomed romance, great sins, and war. Significant events, like Valentine Morgenstern's purchase of a soul and young Jace Wayland finding safe harbor, shape the narrative set against the backdrop of the Shadow Market.
Character compass
Jem Carstairs
Lily Chen
Alec Lightwood
Anna Lightwood
James Herondale
Matthew Fairchild
Jace Herondale
Tessa Gray
Stephen Herondale
Sister Emilia
James Carstairs / Brother Zachariah
Theresa Gray
Cèline Montclair
Catarina Loss
Alexander "Alec" Lightwood
Jonathan "Jace" Wayland
Isabelle Lightwood
Discussion points
How do the characters in the story handle challenges and what can we learn from them?
Which character did you feel most connected to and why?
What are the different expressions of love and loyalty shown in the book?
How do the settings influence the story and the characters' actions?
If you were in the Shadow Market, what magical item would you want to find and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts about the book, which can make your child feel more comfortable expressing their opinions. Use the questions to delve deeper into the characters’ motivations and the ethical dilemmas they face, linking these to real-world scenarios that your child might encounter. Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or what they might have done differently if they were in the characters’ shoes, fostering creativity and critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Throughout 'Ghosts of the Shadow Market', characters often face moral dilemmas and choices that require them to understand and empathize with others' feelings and experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to consider the perspectives of others, developing a sense of empathy, which can improve their interactions and relationships in daily life.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Making Responsible Choices
Explanation: The characters in the book frequently confront situations where they must make decisions that not only affect themselves but also those around them. These moments highlight the consequences of their choices.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to think critically about the consequences of their actions and to make choices that are considerate of both personal and broader impacts.
Example Lesson: The Value of Self-Sacrifice and Teamwork
Explanation: Several characters demonstrate self-sacrifice for the greater good, showing that teamwork and collaboration can lead to overcoming significant challenges.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn the importance of working together and sometimes putting the needs of others before their own, useful in group projects and family responsibilities.
Example Lesson: Courage in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: Characters in 'Ghosts of the Shadow Market' often exhibit bravery when faced with dangerous and uncertain situations, teaching that courage is not the absence of fear, but facing fear when it matters most.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to act bravely during challenging times, whether it's trying out for a school play, standing up for a friend, or coping with personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: Learning from Mistakes
Explanation: As characters navigate a shadowy world, their missteps are often pivotal in their development and the unfolding story, showing that mistakes are part of learning and growing.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that mistakes are a natural part of life and learning process, encouraging them to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.