Plain Kate
What’s inside...
Plain Kate's odd appearance and expertise as a woodcarver cause some to think her a witch, but friendship with a talking cat and, later, with humans help her to survive and even thrive in a world of magic, charms, and fear. Plain Kate lives in a world of superstitions and curses, where a song can heal a wound and a shadow can work deep magic. As the wood-carver's daughter, Kate held a carving knife before a spoon, and her wooden charms are so fine that some even call her 'witch-blade' -- a dangerous nickname in a town where witches are hunted and burned in the square.
Age
11-12
Length
314 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Plain Kate
Drina
Taggle
Linay
Katerina Svetlana
Discussion points
What feelings did you experience while reading about Kate's journey? What made you feel that way?
Kate faces many challenges throughout the book. Which challenge did you think was the hardest for her, and why?
How do you think Kate's relationship with Taggle, her cat, affects her adventure? What does it say about the importance of companionship?
If you were in Kate’s shoes, what would you have done differently in any of the situations she encountered?
Which character did you find most intriguing or relatable and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, make sure to actively listen to your child's thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to express themselves without interruption, showing genuine interest.
Connect the story to your child’s real-life experiences. For instance, ask if they have ever felt like an outsider similar to how Kate felt, and how they handled it.
Discuss the ethical choices Kate makes and ask your child what they would do in similar situations. This can lead to a deeper understanding of moral dilemmas and character development.
Consider using a 'story map' to help your child recall specific events and characters, making the discussion more engaging and structured.
Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to think critically about the story and its themes. This not only boosts their confidence but also enhances their analytical skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Plain Kate faces numerous challenges, including being ostracized by her community and losing her father. Despite these hardships, she continues to push forward and find her own path.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that no matter the difficulties they encounter, they can overcome them through perseverance and inner strength.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and trust
Explanation: Throughout her journey, Plain Kate learns the value of forming trustworthy alliances and friendships, particularly with Taggle, her talking cat, which helps her navigate through her challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of building and maintaining trust within their friendships and how these relationships can provide support in tough times.
Example Lesson: Understanding and accepting differences
Explanation: As Plain Kate meets people from different backgrounds and with different abilities, she learns to appreciate and embrace their differences rather than fear them.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be open to diversity in their own lives, promoting inclusivity and empathy towards others regardless of their backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Consequences of making deals or decisions
Explanation: Kate makes a crucial deal with a witch that has significant consequences. This element of the story underlines the importance of careful decision-making.
Real-World Application: It teaches children to think critically about the consequences of their choices and to seek guidance when faced with important decisions.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up for oneself
Explanation: Despite being often underestimated because of her youth and simplicity, Kate stands up for herself and makes her own decisions, shaping her destiny.
Real-World Application: This lesson empowers children to assert themselves in situations where they may feel overlooked or undervalued, encouraging self-advocacy and confidence.