Journey's End
The New windmill series
on Goodreads (754)
What’s inside...
New York Times bestselling author Rachel Hawkins presents a riveting middle-grade fantasy-adventure set in the town of Journey’s End, where Nolie Stanhope’s father studies a mysterious fog called the Boundary. Despite local legends of a curse drawing tourists, the McKissicks depend on their livelihood. When a boy, Albert Etheridge, returns from the Boundary after disappearing in 1914 without aging or memories, the Boundary starts to threaten the town. Nolie, Bel, and Albert must find a way to stop it using an ancient Scottish spell that requires magic, a quest, and a sacrifice. As they embark on this adventure, they encounter both emotional and adventurous challenges, learning tough lessons along the way.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Nolie Stanhope
Bel Mckissick
Albert Etheredge
Dr. Stanhope
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt when they reached Journey’s End? Can you relate to any of their emotions?
What lessons did the characters learn throughout their adventure?
If you were in the story, what would you have done differently?
Why do you think teamwork was important in the story?
What was your favorite part of the book and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the story by asking them to summarize what happened in their own words.
Use follow-up questions to delve deeper into your child’s thoughts and feelings about the book’s events.
Connect the story to your child’s experiences by discussing similar situations they might have faced.
Discuss the moral or lesson of the story and why it's important in real-life situations.
Praise your child’s responses to encourage thoughtful engagement and to build their confidence in expressing their opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Journey's End', the characters must work together to solve the mysteries of their town, demonstrating how collaboration leads to success.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperating with others, whether in school projects or in family activities, highlighting that teamwork can achieve greater results.
Example Lesson: Embracing change
Explanation: As the young protagonists confront and accept changes in their small town, the story showcases the benefits of adapting to new situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be open to changes in life, such as moving to a new place or adjusting to a new school environment.
Example Lesson: Coping with loss
Explanation: Throughout 'Journey’s End', characters deal with personal loss, which teaches children about grief and the importance of support during tough times.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand their emotions and seek comfort from family and friends during periods of loss or sadness.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity
Explanation: The story's mystery elements ignite curiosity among its characters, showcasing how asking questions leads to discovery and understanding.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore the world around them, ask questions, and actively seek knowledge, both academically and in everyday life.