Serwa Boateng's Guide to Witchcraft and Mayhem
#2 of 2 in Serwa Boateng Series
on Goodreads (346)
What’s inside...
Best-selling author Rick Riordan presents the highly anticipated sequel to Rosanne A. Brown's explosive novel about a preteen vampire slayer, inspired by Ghanaian folklore. After a lifetime of fighting creatures of black magic, twelve-year-old Serwa Boateng has just learned a devastating secret: she herself is half vampire! Now not only is she dealing with vampire puberty, she’s on the run from the organization of Slayers she trained her whole life to join. Serwa's only ally is her aunt Boahinmaa, an obayifo who urges Serwa to embrace her vampire side. Boahinmaa and her underlings are on the hunt for the Midnight Drum, from which they hope to free Serwa's grandmother. When they learn that the Abomofuo have hidden the Midnight Drum deep within the Smithsonian Museum of African Art in Washington, D.C., what do they do? Stage a heist to steal it, of course! For their plan to succeed, Serwa will have to get close to her rival, a Slayer named Declan Amankwah, without revealing her real nature. Declan gets under her skin like no one else . . . and might just force Serwa to confront some truths she's tried hard to deny.
Discussion points
What do you think makes Serwa Boateng a unique character? How do her actions and choices affect those around her?
Can you relate to Serwa's feelings when she faces challenges? What would you do in her position?
How does the theme of friendship develop throughout the story? Why do you think friendships are important in the book?
What lessons do you think Serwa learns about her own abilities and strengths throughout her adventures?
If you could have a magical power like Serwa, what would it be and how would you use it to help others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their opinions about the book's characters and events, affirming their thoughts and feelings to foster a deeper understanding.
Relate the magical and real-life elements of the story to your child’s personal experiences to create personal connections and enhance empathy.
Discuss Serwa's problem-solving strategies and ask your child how they might handle similar situations, promoting critical thinking.
Highlight the cultural aspects presented in the book to expand your child’s global awareness and appreciation for diversity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing one's unique identity
Explanation: Serwa Boateng's journey emphasizes the importance of accepting oneself, imperfections and all. Her exploration of her magical heritage helps her confront and accept her personal idiosyncrasies.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace their individual traits and backgrounds, fostering a strong sense of self-esteem and identity.
Example Lesson: The value of courage and resilience
Explanation: Throughout the book, Serwa faces various challenges and threats, demonstrating bravery and perseverance. Her ability to persist despite obstacles highlights the power of resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of facing challenges head-on and not being deterred by setbacks, a crucial skill in all areas of life.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and collaboration
Explanation: Serwa’s interactions and teamwork with other characters showcase the strength found in collaborative efforts and the support that friendships provide.
Real-World Application: Children learn the virtues of teamwork and the significance of building and maintaining positive relationships, which are valuable in community and school settings.
Example Lesson: Understanding and respecting cultural diversity
Explanation: The book explores various cultural backgrounds and histories connected to witchcraft, presenting them in a respectful and enlightening way.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and respect different cultures, promoting inclusivity and understanding in diverse social environments.