Queen of Air and Darkness
#3 of 3 in The Dark Artifices Series
on Goodreads (120,708)
What’s inside...
In the wake of the tragic death of Livia Blackthorn, the Clave teeters on the brink of civil war. One fragment of the Blackthorn family flees to Los Angeles, seeking to discover the source of the disease that is destroying the race of warlocks. Meanwhile, Julian and Emma take desperate measures to put their forbidden love aside and undertake a perilous mission to Faerie to retrieve the Black Volume of the Dead. What they find in the Courts is a secret that may tear the Shadow World asunder and open a dark path into a future they could never have imagined. Caught in a race against time, Emma and Julian must save the world of Shadowhunters before the deadly power of the parabatai curse destroys them and everyone they love. All first editions will include exclusive reverse-printed jacket art, ten black and white interior illustrations, and a new short story!
Character compass
Emma Carstairs
Gwyn Ap Nudd
Kit Herondale
Tiberius Blackthorn
Kieran
Mark Blackthorn
Julian Blackthorn
Helen Blackthorn
Drusilla Blackthorn
Cristina Rosales
Aline Penhallow
Diana Wrayburn
Horace Dearborn
Zara Dearborn
Livia Blackthorn
Arthur Blackthorn
Julian Atticus Blackthorn
Emma Cordelia Carstairs
Discussion points
How do the choices made by characters like Julian and Emma impact their relationships with others, and what does this say about the consequences of our decisions?
The book portrays various forms of love and loyalty. What are some ways these themes appear, and how do they affect the story’s progression?
In what ways do the characters confront their fears or challenges, and what can we learn from their experiences?
How does the setting of the magical world in 'Queen of Air and Darkness' enhance the struggles and triumphs of the characters?
What are the parallels between the conflicts in the book and real-world issues? How does understanding these help us relate to the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Ask open-ended questions that encourage your child to think more deeply about the characters' motivations and feelings.
Connect the story's themes of love, loyalty, and conflict resolution to real life situations your child might encounter.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the fantasy elements and the real world to enhance understanding and engagement.
Discuss the moral questions raised in the book and ask your child for their opinion, fostering a sense of empathy and ethical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'Queen of Air and Darkness,' characters often face moral dilemmas that require them to consider different perspectives and show empathy. This is evident in their interactions with each other and the choices they make.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and appreciate differences in others, fostering a more inclusive environment at school and in social situations.
Example Lesson: The consequences of decisions
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters make decisions that have significant impacts on their lives and the lives of others. These scenarios emphasize the importance of thinking critically and the repercussions that follow one's choices.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children grasp the concept of cause and effect, encouraging them to think carefully before acting.
Example Lesson: The value of solidarity and teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book often overcome obstacles by working together, highlighting how teamwork can achieve goals that might seem impossible for an individual.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by collaborating with peers on projects or in sports, understanding the strength found in unity.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters encounter various challenges but demonstrate resilience by adapting and persevering. This resilience is key to their survival and success.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of persistence and maintaining a positive attitude, even during difficult times.
Example Lesson: The impact of grief and the importance of coping mechanisms
Explanation: Characters experience loss and show different ways of dealing with their grief. The narrative explores these coping mechanisms, their effectiveness, and the importance of support from others.
Real-World Application: Children learn that it is natural to grieve and that seeking support and finding healthy ways to cope with loss is crucial.