Night Watch
Discworld Series
What’s inside...
'DON'T PUT YOUR TRUST IN REVOLUTIONS. THEY ALWAYS COME ROUND AGAIN. THAT'S WHY THEY'RE CALLED REVOLUTIONS. PEOPLE DIE, AND NOTHING CHANGES.' The twenty-fifth of May is an important, sombre day in Ankh-Morpork - the anniversary of one of the city's bloodiest rebellions. But crime stops for nothing, as Commander Sam Vimes of the City Watch knows. When a notorious serial killer emerges from hiding, the chase leads the Watch to the roofs of Unseen University where a magical storm is brewing. It's a case of wrong place, very wrong time. For Vimes finds himself back in his own rough, tough past with only a killer for company and a city on the brink of revolution to contend with. But he must survive, because he has a job to do: track down the murderer and change the outcome of the rebellion. And get back to the future before his wife gives birth, of course. All in a day's work ... 'The best Discworld book in the whole world ever. Until next time.' SFX Night Watch is the sixth book in the City Watch series, but you can read the Discworld novels in any order.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
11-12
Length
480 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Sam Vimes
Fred Colon
Nobby Nobbs
Reg Shoe
Lu-Tze
Captain Swing
Carcer
Discussion points
What did you think about the way the characters interacted during their adventure?
How did the story make you feel when the night watch was happening?
What do you think is the most important lesson the characters learned during their night watch?
If you were part of the night watch, what would you have done differently?
Can you think of a time when you had to work together with others like the characters did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their emotions and thoughts while discussing the book. Show interest in their responses, and share your own insights to guide them deeper into the story’s messages. Relate the themes of the book to real-life situations your child might encounter to make the concepts more tangible. Using imaginative play, act out scenes from the book to bring the story to life, enhancing understanding and retention of the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Night Watch', characters collaborate to solve problems and overcome obstacles, demonstrating how teamwork can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working together with classmates on school projects or team sports, learning that cooperation can achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and duty
Explanation: The protagonist in 'Night Watch' takes on responsibilities seriously, showing the importance of being dependable and trustworthy.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of fulfilling obligations, whether in completing homework, chores, or commitments to friends.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of fear
Explanation: Characters in the book face their fears to protect their community, illustrating bravery and courage.
Real-World Application: Children learn to confront their personal fears and challenges, be it trying out for a sports team, speaking in front of the class, or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: The significance of vigilance and preparedness
Explanation: The 'Night Watch' guards are always prepared and vigilant, which is crucial for their success and survival.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to be more observant and prepared in everyday situations, such as being aware of their surroundings for safety or preparing for school tests.