Doppol - Trending books for kids

The Dark Hills Divide

#1 of 4 in The Land of Elyon series

3.74
on Goodreads (22,034)

What’s inside...

The Dark Hills Divide follows the story of Alexa Daley, a twelve-year-old girl who spends her summers in the town of Bridewell. Curious about the massive walls that surround the city and what lies beyond them, Alexa finds a way to peek outside during a visit to the town's inventor. Her discovery leads her into unexpected danger and exposes a threat that could change The Land of Elyon forever. As she unravels the truth and gains a new power, Alexa must confront an ancient evil that the townspeople fear, and protect everything she holds dear. Twelve-year-old Alexa Daley is spending another summer in Bridewell with her father. She looks forward to exploring the old lodge where she stays each year, with its cozy library and maze of passages and rooms. She’s also eager to finally solve the mystery of what lies beyond the immense walls that were built to keep out an unnamed evil that lurks in the forests and The Dark Hills – an evil the townspeople are still afraid of. As Alexa begins to unravel the truth about what lies outside the protective barrier she’s lived behind all her life, she discovers a strange and ancient enchantment. Armed with an unexpected new power, Alexa exposes a danger that could destroy everything she holds dear – and change The Land of Elyon forever.
In series
Series reading

Sequential

Age

8-12

Length

253 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Alexa Daley
Murphy
Yipes
Odessa
Pervis Kotcher

Discussion points

How do you think Alexa felt when she discovered the walls surrounding Bridewell? What would you feel in her place?
What role do you think loyalty and bravery played in Alexa's adventures? Can you think of a time when you were brave?
Why do you think the author chose to have a talking book and animals in the story? What do these elements add to the narrative?
How do you think Alexa changed from the beginning to the end of the story? What caused those changes?
If you could ask any character in the book a question, who and what would you ask?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the protagonist’s shoes, promoting empathy and understanding of different perspectives.
Discuss the different themes in the book such as friendship and courage, and relate these back to your child’s everyday experiences.
Highlight the importance of the setting in the story and explore how it influences the plot and characters with your child.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next after pivotal moments in the story to foster critical thinking.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity and inquisitiveness
Explanation: The protagonist, Alexa, demonstrates curiosity throughout the story by exploring her surroundings and seeking to uncover the truth behind the walls of her city.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and explore the world around them, fostering a love for learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: The value of courage and overcoming fears
Explanation: Alexa faces various challenges and dangers but consistently shows bravery, teaching children the importance of facing their fears.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to tackle their own challenges, whether it’s trying something new or standing up for what's right, building resilience and self-confidence.
Example Lesson: The significance of friendship and trust
Explanation: Throughout her adventures, Alexa forms alliances and friendships that are crucial to her success, highlighting the importance of building trust with others.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to value friendships, be cooperative, and trustworthy, which are important skills in developing healthy relationships.
Example Lesson: The impact of deception and the quest for truth
Explanation: Characters in the book must discern who can be trusted and what information is truthful, underlining the consequences of deceit.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the importance of honesty and integrity in their daily interactions and the potential harm caused by dishonesty.
Example Lesson: The power of resilience and persistence
Explanation: Alexa’s determination to uncover the secrets of her world, despite setbacks, teaches the importance of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to stay determined and persistent when faced with obstacles, fostering a never-give-up attitude that is crucial for achieving goals.