Ravencave
on Goodreads (5,322)
What’s inside...
A compilation of two stories, the first tells a chilling ghost story where a young boy named James, while on holiday in Yorkshire, encounters the ghost of a young girl in the ruins of an old farm. The ghost urges him to follow her, revealing a disturbing truth. The second story is a gripping frontier survivor story set during the Alaska gold rush, involving a loaded gun, stolen gold, and a menacing stranger. This story was recognized as a Printz Honor Book.
Discussion points
What do you think the main character feels when they discover the secret of the Ravencave?
How would you solve the mystery if you were in the story?
What are the most important qualities a hero should have, based on the book?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
How do you think the setting of the story influences the actions of the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings to the story and discuss how each one would change the message of the book.
Ask your child to describe the characters in their own words to gauge their understanding and perspective.
Discuss the moral dilemmas presented in the story and relate them to real-life situations to enhance critical thinking.
Create a comfortable and distraction-free reading environment, allowing your child to focus entirely on the themes of the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Ravencave', the protagonist overcomes numerous frightening challenges, demonstrating bravery and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by facing their own fears and challenges, whether it's trying out for a team or standing up to a bully.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters rely on each other's strengths and support during their journey, exemplifying the power of teamwork and trust.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to value their friendships, learn to work in teams, and support each other in achieving common goals.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity and knowledge
Explanation: Characters in 'Ravencave' often use their knowledge and curiosity to solve puzzles and navigate through the story.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to seek knowledge and ask questions about the world around them, enhancing their problem-solving skills and understanding.
Example Lesson: Responsibility for one's actions
Explanation: Characters in the book face the consequences of their decisions, underlining the importance of thinking before acting.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be mindful of the impact their actions can have, fostering a sense of responsibility and thoughtfulness in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in overcoming failures
Explanation: The characters often fail at first but learn from their mistakes, demonstrating the importance of resilience and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn that failure is not a setback but a stepping stone to success and that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles.