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Lair of Dreams: The Diviners

#2 of 4 in The Diviners Series

4.11
on Goodreads (33,289)

What’s inside...

After revealing her supernatural abilities to read people’s secrets, Evie O’Neill becomes a media sensation in New York City. As she enjoys her newfound fame, a mysterious sleeping sickness spreads, and fellow Diviners Henry DuBois and Ling Chan, who can walk in dreams, struggle with their own challenges. A malevolent force infects their dreams, and a sinister figure with plans for the city looms in the background. Together, the Diviners must enter the dreamworld and confront these dark forces to save the city. Libba Bray's heart-stopping sequel to The Diviners delves deeper into the mystical underbelly of New York City, blending supernatural elements with historical intrigue.
In series
Series reading

Sequential

Age

14-15

Length

613 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Evie O'neill
Ling Chan
Theta Knight
Jericho
Henry Dubois Iv
Memphis Campbell
Sam Lloyd
Sister Walker
Will Fitzgerald
Bill Johnson
Mabel Rose
Henry DuBois
Jericho Jones
Will "Unc" Fitzgerald

Discussion points

How do the characters in the book show courage and resilience in the face of their fears?
What role do dreams play in the story, and what do you think they symbolize?
How do the different settings, like New York City during the 1920s, impact the story and the characters?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
How do the characters' relationships with each other influence their individual journeys?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before discussing the book, ask your child to summarize the story in their own words. This can help you gauge their understanding and recall.
Highlight and discuss the historical aspects of the 1920s setting. This can lead to a more enriched discussion about how history and fiction intertwine.
Encourage your child to describe the dream sequences. This can open up conversations about the symbolic meanings and how they relate to the context of the story.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to the key questions to encourage deeper thinking and connection.
Connect the themes of the book to real-world scenarios to help your child relate the story to their own experiences.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding diversity
Explanation: In 'Lair of Dreams', characters from diverse backgrounds come together to confront common challenges, demonstrating the importance of empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace differences among their peers, fostering a more inclusive environment at school and in social settings.
Example Lesson: The power of teamwork
Explanation: The young diviners must collaborate, using their unique supernatural abilities to solve mysteries. This highlights how teamwork can lead to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to work cooperatively in group projects and team sports, understanding that every team member's contribution is valuable.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book often face fearful supernatural and real-world situations, yet they show resilience and courage throughout.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of resilience, which can help them navigate challenges in their own lives, such as moving to a new school or dealing with family issues.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: As characters make choices, both good and bad, the narrative explores the consequences of these actions, teaching responsibility.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that their choices have impacts and encourage them to think about the consequences before acting.
Example Lesson: Importance of personal growth
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters learn more about themselves and grow from their experiences.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to seek personal development and learn from their own experiences, enhancing their self-awareness and maturity.