#2 in The Guardians of Ga'Hoole Series
The Burning
on Goodreads (6,280)
What’s inside...
The Burning is the sixth installment of Kathryn Lasky's bestselling Guardians of Ga'Hoole series. This fantasy novel follows Soren and his band as they confront a new threat in the form of an evil owl army. The guardians must unite all the owl kingdoms in order to defeat this army and save their world.
Character compass
Discussion points
How did the main character's journey make you feel, and what would you have done in their place?
What do you think are the main themes of 'The Burning', and why are they important?
How do the characters' relationships change throughout the story, and what can we learn from these changes?
What are some of the challenges faced by the characters, and how do they overcome them?
How does the setting influence the story, and can you imagine the story taking place in a different setting?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story without fear of 'right' or 'wrong' answers. Use the open-ended questions to explore their understanding of the story's themes and the character's decisions. Listen actively and acknowledge their perspectives, fostering a safe space for deeper discussion. Link discussions to real-life scenarios to make the themes more relatable and meaningful. Lastly, enjoy the bonding experience as you and your child explore the world of 'The Burning' together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: In 'The Burning', the protagonist faces numerous challenges and hostile environments, showcasing bravery and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges, such as trying out new activities or standing up against bullying, with bravery.
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters must work together to overcome obstacles, emphasizing the value of collaboration and mutual support.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the significance of cooperating in group projects at school or in sports teams.
Example Lesson: Ethics and morality
Explanation: The story presents complex situations where characters must make difficult ethical decisions, highlighting moral dilemmas.
Real-World Application: Children can reflect on and discuss what they would do in similar situations, fostering a deeper understanding of ethics and personal values.
Example Lesson: Resilience through change
Explanation: Characters in 'The Burning' go through significant changes and show resilience, adapting to new realities.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of adapting and staying resilient through life changes like moving to a new school or city.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The book delves into the emotions and perspectives of various characters, developing a narrative that promotes empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to empathize with peers who may seem different from them, promoting inclusivity and understanding.