Mantle: The Return of the Sha
#2 in Mantle Series
on Goodreads (4,023)
What’s inside...
Arriving in the English countryside to live with her mother and new stepfather, Jenny has no interest in her surroundings until she meets Tamsin. Since her death over 300 years ago, Tamsin has haunted the lonely estate without rest, trapped by a hidden trauma she can't remember, and a powerful evil even the spirits of night cannot name. To help her, Jenny must delve deeper into the dark world than any human has in hundreds of years, and face danger that will change her life forever.
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt when they encountered challenges in their journey?
What lessons can we learn from the bravery and perseverance shown by the heroes?
Can you think of a time when you had to overcome a difficult situation? How does it relate to the story?
What would you have done differently if you were in the protagonist’s shoes?
How important do you think teamwork was in the story? Why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences to the story’s events, fostering a deeper connection and understanding.
Discuss the moral lessons and values demonstrated in the book, emphasizing their relevance in everyday life.
Use expressive reading to enhance dramatic elements of the story, making the discussion more engaging.
Praise your child’s responses and insights to boost their confidence and encourage further discussion.
Ask leading questions that prompt your child to predict future events or alternative endings, stimulating critical thinking skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: The protagonist faces numerous challenges and overcomes them with courage. These moments are depicted through exciting narrative arcs that highlight the power of bravery in facing seemingly insurmountable odds.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking brave steps in their own lives, such as standing up against bullying or trying out new activities that may seem daunting at first.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Key scenes in the book demonstrate teamwork where characters collaborate, combining their skills to solve problems or defeat adversaries.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate working with others in group projects at school or in team sports, fostering a sense of community and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: The characters often face setbacks and persevere through difficult times, which is a core theme throughout the book.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of not giving up in the face of adversity, whether it's dealing with academic challenges or personal obstacles.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: Diversity among characters, each with unique backgrounds and perspectives, is celebrated in the narrative, showing the strength in differences.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace and respect people from various cultures and backgrounds in their classrooms and communities.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: The book explores the consequences of the characters' actions, demonstrating the complexities of choices.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children think through the potential outcomes of their decisions, promoting responsible decision-making.