The First Collier
#9 of 16 in The Guardians of Ga'Hoole Series
on Goodreads (6,530)
What’s inside...
The book serves as a prequel to the Guardians of Ga'Hoole series, focusing on the history of the owl kingdoms and the events leading up to the rise of the evil Metal Beak. The narrative centers on Grank, a brave and wise owl, who battles against dark forces and strives to protect the innocent. During a tumultuous time of legends and chaos, as warlords fight for power, Grank, a noble Spotted Owl and friend of King Hrath, exiles himself to Beyond the Beyond. There, he develops his firesight, learns metallurgy, and discovers a magical Ember in a volcano, which he hides to prevent its misuse. An ancient malevolence that will threaten the very existence of the great tree has been loosed from the past. With his dying breath, Ezylryb tells Soren and Coryn to read the legends of Ga'Hoole hidden in his private library. There, they find a world of treachery and magic in which a young king and queen struggle to keep peace while Grank, their most loyal friend and supporter, studies embers and flames in a distant land. Then a desperate plea comes from the king, and Grank rushes to the aid of his noble friends.
Character compass
Grank
Queen Siv
Hoole
Fengo
Kreeth
H'rath
Soren
Twilight
Digger
Ezylryb
Nyroc/Coryn
Otulissa
Lord Arrin
Ygyrk
Rorkna
Myrrthe
Pleek
Gylfie
Theo
Svenka
Penryck
Siv
Octavia
Discussion points
What do you think about the challenges Soren and the band faced in their journey?
How do you believe the friendship between the characters influenced their decisions?
What lessons can we learn about bravery and teamwork from the story?
How do you think the story would change if you were one of the characters?
What qualities do you admire most in the main characters and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the characters' adventures to their own experiences.
Use the story's setting and events to discuss larger themes such as courage, friendship, and leadership.
Ask your child to imagine alternative scenarios and how they might unfold differently based on character choices.
Highlight the importance of teamwork as depicted in the book and relate it to everyday situations your child might encounter.
Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings about the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and bravery
Explanation: In 'The First Collier', the characters face difficult challenges that require them to be brave and stand up for what is right, despite their fears.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to face their own challenges, such as trying new activities or standing up against bullying, with bravery and courage.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters must work together to overcome obstacles and achieve common goals, highlighting the strength found in unity.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of cooperating with others, whether in school projects or in playing team sports, to achieve better outcomes together.
Example Lesson: The significance of history and learning from the past
Explanation: The story delves into the history of the owl kingdoms, showing how understanding the past can help to navigate the present and influence the future.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to show interest in their family histories and cultural heritage, understanding how past events shape current realities.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and leadership
Explanation: Key characters take on leadership roles and make tough decisions, demonstrating responsibility.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and the role of leadership in various aspects of life, such as in school assignments or household chores.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book often face setbacks but show resilience by continuing to strive towards their goals.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of perseverance and continuing to work towards their goals, despite difficulties they may encounter.