Hollowpox: The Hunt for Morrigan Crow
#3 in Nevermoor Series
What’s inside...
In the third book of the Nevermoor series, Morrigan Crow and her friends have survived their first year as proud scholars of the elite Wundrous Society, helped bring down the nefarious Ghastly Market, and proven themselves loyal to Unit 919. Now Morrigan faces a new challenge: returning to her life in the Society whilst keeping her 'Wundersmith' powers in check. But a strange and frightening illness has taken hold of Nevermoor, turning infected Wunimals into mindless, vicious Unnimals on the hunt. As victims of the Hollowpox multiply, panic spreads. There are whispers - growing louder every day - that this catastrophe can only be the work of the Wundersmith, Ezra Squall.
Character compass
Morrigan Crow
Cadence Blackburn
Hawthorne Swift
Jupiter North
Discussion points
What do you think makes Morrigan Crow a unique character, and why?
How do the friendships in the story affect the decisions Morrigan makes? Can you relate to any of these relationships?
What are some ways the characters show bravery in facing the unknown in 'Hollowpox'?
How does the idea of belonging and acceptance play a role in this book, and why is it important to Morrigan?
What lessons can we learn about dealing with fears and uncertainties from the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that let your child express their thoughts and feelings about the story as they see it. This value of personal interpretation helps develop critical thinking.
Encourage your child to compare the story’s events and characters with their own experiences or feelings. This relating can help deepen their understanding and empathy.
Discuss the choices characters make and ask your child what they might have done differently, guiding them to consider different perspectives.
Highlight moments of courage and resilience in the book and connect these to your child’s everyday life, fostering a growth mindset.
After finishing the book, ask your child to imagine what might happen next or write a continuation of the story, encouraging creativity and engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Hollowpox: The Hunt for Morrigan Crow,' Morrigan's journey involves encountering characters from different backgrounds and situations, which teaches her to understand and empathize with their experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to listen and empathize with their peers, appreciating diverse perspectives and developing compassionate relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: Throughout the story, Morrigan displays courage when confronting the mysterious disease, Hollowpox, and the challenges it brings. Her bravery in uncertain times serves as a pivotal element in the narrative.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of facing challenges with bravery, encouraging them to tackle their own obstacles, whether it’s trying something new or standing up for what’s right.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Leadership
Explanation: As Morrigan takes on her role in the Wundrous Society, she learns valuable lessons about the responsibility that comes with power and the importance of strong leadership.
Real-World Application: Children can learn from Morrigan’s development into a responsible leader, applying these principles in everyday tasks and group activities at school, showing initiative and making decisions thoughtfully.
Example Lesson: The Power of Knowledge
Explanation: Morrigan’s quest for answers about the Hollowpox highlights the importance of knowledge and learning. Her journey is as much about acquiring information as it is about solving the mystery.
Real-World Application: This underscores the importance of education and continuous learning in children’s lives, inspiring them to be curious, ask questions, and seek knowledge.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Morrigan shows resilience throughout the trials she faces in the book. Her ability to persist despite setbacks is a key theme.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace resilience in their personal challenges, understanding that perseverance is key to overcoming difficulties.