The Copper Gauntlet (Magisterium #2) (2)
#2 of 5 in Magisterium Series
on Goodreads (39,225)
What’s inside...
From Holly Black and Cassandra Clare comes the second installment in the New York Times bestselling series -- Now in Paperback! Callum Hunt's summer break isn't like other kids'. His closest companion is a Chaos-ridden wolf, Havoc. His father suspects him of being secretly evil. And, of course, most kids aren't heading back to the magical world of the Magisterium in the fall. It's not easy for Call . . . and it gets even harder after he checks out his basement and discovers that his dad might be trying to destroy both him and Havoc. Call escapes to the Magisterium -- but things only intensify there. The Alkahest -- a copper gauntlet capable of separating certain magicians from their magic -- has been stolen. And in their search to discover the culprit, Call and his friends Aaron and Tamara awaken the attention of some very dangerous foes -- and get closer to an even more dangerous truth. As the mysteries of the Magisterium deepen and widen, bestselling authors Holly Black and Cassandra Clare take readers on an extraordinary journey through one boy's conflict -- and a whole world's fate. All his life, Call has been warned by his father to stay away from magic. Now that he's entered the Magisterium, Call's sure the school can only bring bad things. A place both sensational and sinister, the Magisterium has dark ties to his past -- and a twisty path to his future. A path that will forever change everything Call thought he knew about the worlds of good and evil.
Character compass
Callum Hunt
Jasper Dewinter
Aaron Stewart
Tamara Rajavi
Master Rufus
Alex Strike
Alastair Hunt
Discussion points
How do you think Callum felt when he discovered the truth about his identity? What would you do in his situation?
The Copper Gauntlet presents various forms of friendship and trust. Can you identify these and talk about which one you find most compelling?
What do you think is the significance of the Copper Gauntlet in the story? How do the characters' perceptions of it change throughout the book?
If you had magical powers like the characters, how would you choose to use them?
The book explores choices between good and evil. What are some of the decisions Callum has to make, and what do you think about his choices?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters and their decisions, fostering a deeper understanding of moral complexities. Pose questions that connect the book's themes to your child's own experiences, enhancing empathy and personal reflection. Utilize pauses after questions to give your child time to think deeply, showing that their thoughts and opinions are valued. Finally, share your viewpoints and experiences in relation to the book’s themes, creating a two-way dialogue that enriches the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Friendship and Loyalty
Explanation: Throughout 'The Copper Gauntlet,' the protagonist, Callum, navigates through various challenges, relying heavily on the support and loyalty of his friends. This underscores the importance of having reliable friends in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of building strong, supportive relationships with their peers, which can help them navigate school and social situations.
Example Lesson: Courage and Facing Fears
Explanation: Callum must confront his fears about his identity and destiny. This theme teaches readers about bravery and the importance of facing one’s fears, even when it seems daunting.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to tackle their personal fears, whether it's speaking in front of the class, trying out for a sports team, or standing up for what's right.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Decision Making
Explanation: As Callum learns more about his magical abilities and heritage, he is faced with choices that affect not just him but his friends and the wider magical community. This illustrates the weight of responsibility and making ethical decisions.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that their decisions have consequences and that they should think carefully, considering both themselves and others.
Example Lesson: The Complexity of Right and Wrong
Explanation: The book explores themes of good versus evil and the gray areas in between, showing that people, including oneself, can possess qualities of both.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to appreciate that issues of morality are often complex and that understanding different perspectives is important.