Maya and the Rising Dark
#1 of 3 in Maya and the Rising Dark Series
on Goodreads (1,986)
What’s inside...
In this contemporary fantasy, twelve-year-old Maya embarks on a quest to find her missing father, only to discover she is at the center of a battle between our world, the Orishas, and the sinister Dark world. As she navigates this complex realm, Maya learns her father is the guardian of the veil separating these worlds. With her own godling powers, half orisha and half human, Maya must confront the Lord of Shadows, the man from her nightmares, who threatens to destroy the human world. As the veil weakens, Maya races against time to save her world, hoping to resolve the conflict before attending Comic-Con at summer's end.
Character compass
Maya
Frankie
Eli
Papa
The Lord Of Shadows
Discussion points
What would you do if you were in Maya's shoes when she discovers her powers?
How do Maya's friendships help her throughout her journey? Can you relate to any of her friendships?
What do you think about the different realms and creatures in the book? Which one intrigued you the most?
Maya faces many challenges, how do you think she feels about them? How would you feel in a similar situation?
The book blends elements of fantasy and real-world issues. What real-world issues did you notice, and how do they relate to Maya's story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with Maya's, fostering a deeper connection to the character's journey and choices.
Discuss the mythological elements in the story. Ask your child what they know about mythology and if anything in the book reminded them of stories they have heard before.
Point out Maya's problem-solving and leadership skills and relate them to everyday scenarios your child might encounter, highlighting the relevance of these skills.
Use the book’s themes of friendship and bravery to discuss the importance of supportive relationships and standing up for what is right in their own lives.
Explore the concept of different realms and ask your child to imagine their own realm. What would it look like? Who would live there?
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Maya, the protagonist, consistently demonstrates bravery as she confronts dark forces to save her missing father and protect her community.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and challenges confidently, understanding that courage is not the absence of fear, but the decision to act despite it.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Maya relies on her close friends, Frankie and Eli, to navigate the challenges they encounter. Their teamwork emphasizes the power of collaboration and support.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value their friendships, work cooperatively in group settings, and support one another in overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Embracing cultural heritage
Explanation: The story integrates elements of African mythology, which Maya embraces to understand her identity and powers. This acceptance of her heritage is a crucial component of her character development.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and take pride in their own heritage and backgrounds, fostering a sense of identity and self-esteem.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and critical thinking
Explanation: Throughout the book, Maya encounters various puzzles and problems that she needs to solve to progress in her quest. These situations require critical thinking and creativity.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to approach problems thoughtfully and creatively in their everyday lives, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Maya remains determined and does not give up on her goals. Her resilience is a key factor in her success.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of perseverance in achieving goals, encouraging them to keep striving forward even when faced with difficulties.