Lost on Aquaria (Zenda #4)
#4 of 4 in Zen Series
on Goodreads (148)
What’s inside...
Zenda's school is taking a weekend trip to Aquaria, one of Azureblue's watery moons. Everyone else is excited about the trip, but Zenda can't shake the terrible feeling that something bad is going to happen. Sure enough, Zenda finds herself separated from the group with her nemesis, Alexandra. The two girls must put aside their differences to brave the dangers of Aquaria-as well as escape from the mysterious monster born of their own doubt and fear. Besides finding her musings, Zenda must also find her way home-but first, she must confront her fears.
Discussion points
What do you think Zenda felt when she was lost on Aquaria? How would you feel in a similar situation?
Zenda meets many different creatures on Aquaria. Which one was your favorite and why?
What lessons do you think Zenda learned during her adventure on Aquaria?
If you were Zenda, what would you have done differently on your adventure?
How do you think the story would change if it was set on Earth instead of Aquaria?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about Zenda’s challenges and victories, relating them to their own experiences.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. Use this as a starting point to discuss the themes of the story.
Create a 'what if' scenario by asking your child how they would use their own skills to navigate a similar adventure.
Discuss the decisions Zenda makes and explore with your child how decision-making can lead to different outcomes.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of resilience and creativity when facing new and challenging environments.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'Lost on Aquaria,' the characters must work together to navigate the challenges of the alien planet. Their success is dependent on their ability to cooperate and value each other's unique abilities.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in group activities or school projects, learning to appreciate diverse perspectives and skills, and understanding the importance of working together to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: As the characters encounter unexpected obstacles on Aquaria, they demonstrate resilience by adapting to their circumstances and never giving up, despite the difficulties they face.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to remain determined and persistent when faced with challenges. Whether it's dealing with a tough subject at school or overcoming a personal setback, resilience can lead to growth and success.
Example Lesson: Importance of Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The protagonists' journey across Aquaria is driven by their curiosity and desire to explore the unknown, showcasing how exploration leads to important discoveries and personal development.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be curious about the world around them, ask questions, and actively seek out new knowledge and experiences, which can enhance their education and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, the characters encounter problems that they need to solve collaboratively and creatively, using their knowledge and resources.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to think critically and creatively in their own lives, using problem-solving skills to navigate homework tasks, resolve conflicts with friends, or tackle day-to-day challenges.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding Different Perspectives
Explanation: As the characters interact with the inhabitants of Aquaria, they learn to understand and empathize with beings who are different from themselves, promoting a message of acceptance and compassion.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children in understanding and accepting differences among their peers, fostering an inclusive environment at school and in social settings, and developing empathy towards others.