Hollow Chest
on Goodreads (185)
What’s inside...
Charlie has been having nightmares of eyes watching him and claws holding him down ever since German bombs rained down on London. His brother, Theo, went to war, leaving Charlie to care for his grandpa while his mother works. As WWII nears its end, Theo returns home cold and distant. Grandpa Fitz warns that soldiers sometimes return missing a piece of themselves, but Charlie refuses to accept that his brother is lost. He discovers that war wolves, ancient beasts feeding on the hearts of those broken by grief, are responsible for Theo's change. To save Theo, Charlie must confront these beasts and attempt to retrieve his brother’s heart. Debut author Brita Sandstrom presents a modern folktale on the darkness around us and the courage to maintain hope.
Discussion points
How did Charlie’s relationship with the animals around him change throughout the story, and what does that teach us about caring for others?
What are some ways that Charlie shows bravery and kindness? Can you think of a time when you did something similar?
The story explores the impact of war, not just on soldiers but on families and communities. What are some ways the people in Charlie's village support each other?
What does the 'hollow chest' represent in the story? How do you think it affects the characters?
Why do you think the author chose a wolf to be such an important figure in this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, which helps your child connect more deeply with the story.
Before starting each reading session, recap the last part you read. This not only refreshes the memory but also enhances understanding and retention.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story’s events, which promotes empathy and emotional intelligence.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next in the story. This engages their imagination and analytical thinking.
After finishing the book, engage in a creative activity like drawing a scene from the book or writing a letter to a character. This makes the interaction with the book’s themes more tangible and memorable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'Hollow Chest,' characters demonstrate empathy by caring for and understanding each other’s emotions, especially when dealing with the trauma of war.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize and respond to the feelings of others, helping to build stronger, supportive relationships with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist shows bravery when confronting challenges, such as dealing with the wolves that threaten his family, symbolizing overcoming personal fears and obstacles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of facing fears and the importance of resilience, which are applicable in tackling everyday challenges such as trying new activities or standing up for themselves.
Example Lesson: The power of healing and forgiveness
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters learn to forgive and heal from past wounds inflicted by the horrors of war, emphasizing restoration and renewal.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of letting go of grudges and the healing power of forgiveness, which can lead to more peaceful and fulfilling interactions with peers.
Example Lesson: The strength of family bonds
Explanation: The story portrays the strength and support a family provides during tough times, showcasing the characters' reliance on one another to cope with external threats.
Real-World Application: This emphasizes to children the importance of family support and unity, encouraging them to value and turn to their own families during difficult times.