#3 in The Unwanteds Series
Island of Shipwrecks
on Goodreads (9,643)
What’s inside...
The fifth book in the Unwanteds series, Island of Shipwrecks follows Alex and his friends as they continue their magical training and face new dangers. When a risky rescue mission leads them to a mysterious island filled with shipwrecks, they must use their magic and their wits to survive.
Character compass
Discussion points
What did Alex and his friends do to survive the challenges they faced on the island? How would you have handled the same situations?
How do the relationships between the characters change throughout the story? What does this teach us about friendship and teamwork?
What role does the setting of the island play in the story? How does it affect the characters’ actions and decisions?
Why do you think the author chose shipwrecks as a central theme? What symbolism can you find in this choice?
How do the characters' decisions impact their journey? Can you think of a decision you made that changed something in your life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare and contrast the different characters, discussing their strengths and weaknesses. This can lead to insights into the importance of diverse skills and teamwork.
Discuss the problem-solving strategies used by Alex and his friends. This can help enhance your child’s critical thinking skills.
Point out the significance of the setting and ask your child how they think the story would change if it were set somewhere else. This will help them understand the importance of context in storytelling.
Use the theme of shipwrecks to discuss overcoming adversity and the importance of resilience. Relate these themes to personal experiences or hypothetical scenarios to deepen understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Island of Shipwrecks', the characters must collaborate and rely on each other's unique skills to survive and escape the dangerous island. This demonstrates the effectiveness of working together towards a common goal.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in group projects at school or in sports, learning that cooperation and valuing each person’s contribution leads to success.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonists face numerous challenges and setbacks throughout their journey. However, their determination and perseverance enable them to overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that persistence and courage can help them navigate difficulties in their own lives, such as dealing with academic challenges or personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: As the characters encounter unexpected circumstances on the island, they learn to adapt their plans and strategies. This flexibility is crucial for their survival.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that being open to change and ready to adjust their approach can be beneficial when dealing with new situations in school or in their personal lives.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision-making
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters face moral dilemmas that require them to make tough choices between right and wrong. Their decisions often have significant consequences.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically about ethics and to make considered decisions based on what they feel is right, rather than what is easy.
Example Lesson: Importance of environmental awareness
Explanation: The story's setting on a shipwrecked island highlights themes of nature and conservation, showing how the environment impacts the characters' lives and choices.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be more aware of environmental issues and to take actions in their daily lives that contribute to the health and sustainability of our planet.