Magic Lands: Journey Beyond the Beyond
#1 of 2 in Magic Lands Series
What’s inside...
Exercise your mind and the power of your imagination while embarking on a journey of discovery unlike any other. Magic Lands: Journey Beyond the Beyond is a refreshingly unique fantastic adventure that is suitable for readers of all ages while containing all the icky-gooey-creepy details that are sure to delight! Following the village elder's advice, Ray leaves his home village, setting out for the place lost and deep where he will find a companion for his journey to the stone land and where he will discover that there is no easy path. Here's what readers and reviewers have said about Magic Lands: 'A first-class novella by a first-rate author. Bravo!' 'Fascinating, utterly thought provoking from start to finish.' 'Robert Stanek paints eerily haunting images that dazzle the mind's eye and delight.' 'Full of creepy crawly images that have utterly delighted my ten and twelve year old sons.' 'My son and I have read the book twice already!'
Discussion points
What do you think about Kevin and Tess's friendship? How do they help each other in their journey?
Which part of the Magic Lands was your favorite and why?
If you could have a magical power like one of the characters, what would it be and how would you use it?
How did the choices the characters made affect their adventure? What would you have done differently?
What lessons do you think the story teaches about bravery and perseverance?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Use the open-ended questions to delve deeper into the characters’ motives and decisions. Validate their feelings and thoughts to create a safe space for discussion. Connect the themes of the book to real-life situations your child might encounter to help them relate more profoundly. Lastly, share your own thoughts and interpretations to model thoughtful reading and to show that all views are valued.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist embarks on a challenging journey, overcoming obstacles and confronting fears, which exemplifies bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own fears and challenges with bravery, understanding that courage is not the absence of fear, but the determination to confront it.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the adventure, alliances are forged and friendships are tested, showcasing how working together can overcome difficulties that might be insurmountable alone.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of collaborating with others, whether in school projects or in sports, and helps them appreciate the strength found in unity.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and leadership
Explanation: The protagonist is thrust into a leadership role, making decisions that affect others, thereby learning about the responsibilities of leading.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by taking on more responsibilities at home, in school, or in their community, learning what it means to be a leader in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through difficulties
Explanation: Characters in the story persist in their goals despite numerous setbacks, illustrating resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to keep trying and not give up easily, whether it's completing a difficult school assignment or learning a new skill in sports or arts.
Example Lesson: Discovery and exploration
Explanation: The journey into the Magic Lands is filled with discoveries that challenge the characters' understanding of their world and themselves.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore the world around them and be open to learning and experiencing new things, fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder.