House of Salt and Sorrows
#1 of 2 in Sisters of the Salt Series
on Goodreads (104,169)
What’s inside...
House of Salt and Sorrows is a New York Times bestseller YA novel that follows the eerie and mysterious events surrounding the twelve beautiful sisters of a secluded island estate, who begin to die one by one under suspicious circumstances. The protagonist, Annaleigh, grows increasingly disturbed by ghostly visions and the bizarre deaths of her sisters, prompting her to investigate the dark curse rumored to befall her family. As Annaleigh delves deeper, she encounters forbidden balls, shimmering apparitions, and a mysterious stranger with secrets of his own. This atmospheric fairy tale-inspired story weaves elements of magic and suspense, ideal for fans of haunting, dark tales.
Discussion points
What emotions did you feel while reading about the Thaumas sisters' experiences?
How do you think the setting of the manor by the sea influences the story?
What are some ways the characters in the book show strength and courage?
How do the themes of grief and loss manifest in different characters?
What choices would you have made if you were in the shoes of one of the Thaumas sisters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts and feelings about the book to create an open sharing environment.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the emotions experienced by the characters and any personal feelings they might have encountered in similar situations.
Discuss the elements of mystery and suspense in the story, asking your child why those elements kept them engaged or what predictions they made while reading.
Explore the theme of family bonds with your child by discussing the relationship dynamics among the Thaumas sisters.
Praise your child for any unique insights or connections they make, reinforcing their critical thinking and analytical skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Annaleigh, demonstrates resilience by facing numerous challenges and mysteries surrounding her family.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance and staying strong even when situations are difficult.
Example Lesson: The importance of family bonds
Explanation: Throughout the story, the theme of family unity and loyalty is prominent as Annaleigh navigates her complex family dynamics.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of supporting and trusting family members during challenging times.
Example Lesson: Distinguishing reality from illusion
Explanation: Annaleigh struggles to differentiate between the real world and haunting visions, which emphasizes the need for discernment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to critically assess situations and seek truth amidst confusion or misinformation.