Not Good for Maidens
on Goodreads (2,480)
What’s inside...
Salem’s Lot meets The Darkest Part of the Forest in this horror-fantasy retelling of Christina Rossetti’s “Goblin Market.” Lou never believed in superstitions or magic--until her teenage aunt Neela is kidnapped to the goblin market. The market is a place Lou has only read about--twisted streets, offerings of sweet fruits and incredible jewels. Everything--from the food and wares, to the goblins themselves--is a haunting temptation for any human who manages to find their way in. Determined to save Neela, Lou learns songs and spells and tricks that will help her navigate this dangerous world and slip past a goblin's defenses--but she only has three days to find Neela before the market disappears and her aunt becomes one of them forever. If she isn't careful, the market might just end up claiming her too. They’ll lure you in with fruit and gems and liquor and dancing, merriment to remember for the rest of your life. But that’s an illusion. The market is death itself.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
14-17
Length
345 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Lou's relationship with her family influences her decisions throughout the story?
What role does the setting of a bustling market play in the narrative, and how does it affect the characters?
What are the main differences you noticed between the human world and the world of the fae?
How do the characters in the book demonstrate bravery or courage?
What lessons can we learn about trust and betrayal from the events that unfold in this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the complexities of each character's decisions and motivations. Discuss the moral dilemmas presented in the story and ask your child how they would react in similar situations. Explore the cultural elements presented in the book and connect them to real-world traditions and myths, enhancing the learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters face numerous challenges, yet they continue to press forward and overcome obstacles. This demonstrates the power of resilience and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by not giving up when they face difficulties in school or in personal endeavors, learning to persevere through challenges.
Example Lesson: Understanding the value of family and community
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes strong family bonds and community support, showing how these relationships provide strength and guidance.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to value and rely on their family and friends for support during tough times, and contribute positively to their own communities.
Example Lesson: The significance of personal integrity
Explanation: Characters in the book often face moral dilemmas, and those who act with integrity reap positive outcomes, illustrating the importance of making ethical choices.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to act honestly and ethically in their daily interactions and decisions, promoting a sense of moral responsibility.
Example Lesson: Courage to confront fears
Explanation: Characters confront literal and metaphorical fears, teaching readers about bravery and the benefits of facing one’s fears.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to tackle their own fears, whether it’s speaking in front of the class, trying out for a sports team, or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding different perspectives
Explanation: By presenting diverse perspectives, the book fosters empathy and understanding, showing how different characters experience and interpret events.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand that everyone has unique feelings and viewpoints, which is vital for developing empathy and interpersonal relationships in real life.