The Edge Chronicles 13: The Descenders
#3 in The Edge Chronicles: The Cade Series
What’s inside...
In 'The Descenders', the final installment of the Cade saga within The Edge Chronicles series, young Cade Quarter continues his quest for knowledge and truth in the fantastical world of The Edge. Battling sky pirates and encountering new characters, Cade's adventure is a whirlwind of action and danger, leading to revelations that could change The Edge forever. Cade Quarter has spent the last few years of his life running from an enemy he’s never even met – the ruthless and power-hungry High Professor of Flight, Quove Lentis. But Quove’s deadly agenda has finally caught up with Cade, and now he must leave his home and flee once more, this time to the legendary floating city of New Sanctaphrax. But even reuniting with his uncle, Nate Quarter, isn’t the end of Cade’s troubles – and now, more than ever, he must find the courage to defy his enemies, unite his friends, and unlock the secrets of descending. The Descenders is the third and final book in the Cade trilogy - the fifth and final saga in Stewart and Riddell’s internationally bestselling series, The Edge Chronicles, which has featured on the Times and New York Times bestseller lists, and sold more than 3 million copies. 2018 marks twenty years of the series, now complete with thirteen titles across five separate but interlinking sagas.
Character compass
Cade Quarter
Discussion points
How do you think Cade felt when he discovered the truth about his family? What would you do in his place?
The Descenders explores various forms of leadership. Which leader did you find most effective or admirable, and why?
This story takes us through many different settings. Which place was your favorite and what made it special?
What lessons do you think this book teaches about friendship and trust?
If you could change one thing in the book, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, relating it to their own experiences when possible. Ask them to imagine themselves in the world of the Edge Chronicles— which character they might befriend and why. Highlight the value of perseverance and overcoming challenges as demonstrated by the characters. Discuss the decision-making processes of different characters and ask your child what they would have done differently in those situations. Praise your child for thoughtful responses and insights, reinforcing their critical thinking and comprehension skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonists in 'The Edge Chronicles 13: The Descenders' often face challenging and dangerous situations. Their bravery and determination to overcome these challenges are central to the storyline.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of facing their fears and standing up for what they believe in. This helps in building resilience and confidence, which are essential in navigating everyday challenges and conflicts.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters often rely on each other's strengths and work together to solve complex problems. This collaboration is pivotal to their success.
Real-World Application: This serves as a reminder to children about the importance of cooperating with others and appreciating diverse abilities in group settings such as school projects or sports teams.
Example Lesson: Responsibility towards the environment
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes the impact of human actions on the world of the Edge and encourages characters to make ethical choices to preserve their environment.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to take action to protect the natural world around them, fostering a sense of environmental stewardship through recycling, conserving water, or participating in community clean-ups.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge
Explanation: Characters in the book show a deep thirst for learning more about their mysterious world, driving much of the plot and character development.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to be inquisitive about the world around them enhances their educational experience and can spark a lifelong love of learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Dealing with loss and grief
Explanation: As characters in the book encounter loss, the story explores healthy expressions of grief and the importance of support networks during tough times.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of expressing emotions and seeking comfort from friends and family during periods of loss, which is crucial for emotional development.