The Book of Pearl
on Goodreads (2,512)
What’s inside...
In prose as magical and intricate as the tale it tells, Timothée de Fombelle delivers an unforgettable story of a first love that defines a lifetime. Joshua Pearl comes from a world that we no longer believe in — a world of fairy tale. He knows that his great love waits for him there, but he is stuck in an unfamiliar time and place — an old-world marshmallow shop in Paris on the eve of World War II. As his memories begin to fade, Joshua seeks out strange objects: tiny fragments of tales that have already been told, trinkets that might possibly help him prove his own story before his love is lost forever. Sarah Ardizzone and Sam Gordon translate the original French into a work both luminous and layered, enabling Timothée de Fombelle’s modern fairy tale to thrum with magic. Brimming with romance and history, mystery and adventure, this ode to the power of memory, storytelling, and love will ensnare any reader’s imagination and every reader’s heart.
Age
12-18
Length
368 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Joshua Pearl
Olia
Madame Pearl
Monsieur Pearl
Discussion points
How do you think Ilian feels when he's transported from his own world to ours?
What do you think the pearls represent in the story?
Why is it important for Ilian to remember his past, and how does that change the way he views his present?
How do the characters in the book show bravery or kindness?
If you were Ilian, what would you have done differently in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the magical worlds described in the book. Ask them to describe what they see, hear, and feel. This not only makes the discussion more immersive but also enhances their creative thinking. As you navigate through the themes of memory and identity in the book, relate them to your child’s own experiences with moving to a new place or starting at a new school. It helps personalize the story and fosters a deeper understanding. Remember to praise your child's responses, offering positive reinforcement that encourages them to express their thoughts and emotions freely.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist's journey through varying hardships to find his lost love exemplifies the sheer power of persistence against odds.
Real-World Application: Children learn that facing challenges with determination can help them achieve their goals in school, relationships, or personal projects.
Example Lesson: The importance of identity and memory
Explanation: The story explores how the main character's identity is shaped by his memories and his struggles to reclaim his past.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of understanding and valuing their own history and experiences, shaping who they are.
Example Lesson: The power of love and sacrifice
Explanation: The protagonist shows deep love and commitment, sacrificing his comfort and safety to reunite with his beloved, demonstrating love's transformative power.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the significance of caring for others and making personal sacrifices to help friends or family.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters endure various challenges but remain steadfast and hopeful, showcasing resilience.
Real-World Application: This imparts a valuable perspective on bouncing back from setbacks, encouraging children to stay positive and resilient during difficult times in their lives.
Example Lesson: The impact of choices on destiny
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes how the choices made by characters significantly influence their life paths and destinies.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of making thoughtful decisions and understanding the consequences of their actions in shaping their future.