Doppol - Smart Book Recommendations

#1 in The Unwanteds Series

Island of Legends

4.35
on Goodreads (11,639)

What’s inside...

The Island of Legends is the fourth book in the Unwanteds series by Lisa McMann. In this installment, Alex and his friends embark on a dangerous journey to the ancient Island of Legends to rescue Sky's mother and find the fourth element of magic, water. Along the way, they encounter mythical creatures, face deadly challenges, and discover secrets about their magical world.
In series
Age
10-12
Length
496 pages
Text complexity

Character compass

Discussion points

What do you think made the characters brave in the 'Island of Legends'?
How did the different places in the book make you feel? Which was your favorite and why?
If you could have a special ability like any of the characters, which one would you choose and what would you do with it?
Why do you think teamwork was important in the story? Can you think of a time when you had to work with others to achieve something?
What lessons did you learn from the challenges that the characters faced?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading: Change your tone and pace to match the exciting and adventurous parts of the story to keep your child engaged.
Connect themes to real-life: Discuss how the courage and teamwork in the book can be applied in everyday situations your child may encounter.
Encourage imagination: Ask your child to imagine themselves in the world of the story, prompting them to consider how they might interact with the characters and surroundings.
Empower their feelings: Validate your child’s emotions regarding the story’s events to encourage emotional intelligence and empathy.
Pause for thoughts: Give your child time to think about the answers to your questions. This patience fosters deeper thinking and understanding.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'Island of Legends', characters often need to work together to overcome challenges and solve problems, highlighting the importance of cooperation.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in group activities or team sports, learning to collaborate and value each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters face various obstacles and setbacks but learn to persist and not give up, teaching resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson is crucial for children as they face academic and social challenges, helping them learn to persevere despite difficulties.
Example Lesson: The Value of Friendship
Explanation: The story explores the deep bonds between characters, emphasizing trust and support among friends.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to build and maintain meaningful relationships, showing them the importance of being a supportive friend in real life.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Explanation: Characters often encounter puzzles and mysteries that they must use logic and creativity to solve.
Real-World Application: Children can enhance their problem-solving skills by engaging in puzzles and other intellectual challenges, boosting their critical thinking abilities.
Example Lesson: Courage to Confront Fear
Explanation: Characters in the book frequently face fears but learn to confront them bravely, illustrating the courage to face one's fears.
Real-World Application: This empowers children to face their own fears, whether it’s trying new activities, or standing up for themselves or others.