The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making
#1 of 5 in The Fairyland Series
What’s inside...
The story follows a young girl named September as she is spirited away from her mundane life to Fairyland. In Fairyland, she embarks on a journey that will lead her across the realm, encountering a variety of strange and wonderful creatures along the way. One of the most extraordinary works of fantasy, for adults or children, published so far this century, according to Time magazine, on the Fairyland series. Twelve-year-old September lives in Omaha, and used to have an ordinary life, until her father went to war and her mother went to work. One day, September is met at her kitchen window by a Green Wind (taking the form of a gentleman in a green jacket), who invites her on an adventure, implying that her help is needed in Fairyland. The new Marquess is unpredictable and fickle, and also not much older than September. Only September can retrieve a talisman the Marquess wants from the enchanted woods, and if she doesn’t, then the Marquess will make life impossible for the inhabitants of Fairyland. September is already making new friends, including a book-loving Wyvern and a mysterious boy named Saturday. With exquisite illustrations by acclaimed artist Ana Juan, Fairyland lives up to the sensation it created when the author first posted it online. For readers of all ages who love the charm of Alice in Wonderland and the soul of The Golden Compass, here is a reading experience unto itself: unforgettable, and so very beautiful.
Character compass
September
A-Through-L
Saturday
The Green Wind
The Marquess
Leopard of Little Breezes
Queen Mallow
Iago
Discussion points
What do you think motivated September to go on her adventure in Fairyland, and how do you feel about her decisions?
How did the friends September met along the way help her in her journey, and what does this teach us about friendship and cooperation?
What challenges did September face, and how did she overcome them? What can we learn from her resilience?
If you could visit any place in Fairyland, where would you go and why?
How do the fantastical elements in the story help reveal real-life truths? Can you think of any examples?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their own experiences with friendships to those September experiences in the story, fostering a deeper connection with the character’s journey.
Discuss the moral and ethical decisions made by characters in the book to understand your child’s perspective on right and wrong.
Use creative prompts like drawing or imagining their own fantasy land to make connections between the book’s themes and your child’s creativity and interests.
Allow your child to express which parts of the book excited, scared, or puzzled them, and explore those emotions together in a supportive way.
Use the rich descriptions in the book to build your child’s descriptive vocabulary by asking them to describe scenes or characters in their own words.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist, September, embarks on a journey that pushes her out of her comfort zone. She faces unknown challenges and whimsical creatures in Fairyland, demonstrating bravery and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach new experiences in life, such as starting a new school or trying out a new activity, with bravery and an open mind, even if it seems intimidating at first.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and compassion
Explanation: In the story, September makes friends with various characters, and their relationships are built on mutual trust and support. Her interactions underscore the value of helping others and forming meaningful connections.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be kind and supportive to their peers, forming friendships that are beneficial and fulfilling, teaching them the value of teamwork and empathy in social settings.
Example Lesson: Taking responsibility for one’s actions
Explanation: As September navigates Fairyland, she makes decisions that she must take responsibility for, learning from her mistakes. This aspect of the book highlights the consequences of one's choices.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to own up to their actions, both good and bad, understand the impact they have on others, and strive to make amends where necessary. This can help them develop a strong sense of moral responsibility.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of challenges
Explanation: September encounters various obstacles on her quest in Fairyland. Despite the difficulties, she perseveres and remains committed to her goal, illustrating determination and tenacity.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence even when faced with difficulties, helping them understand that they can achieve their goals through continuous effort and determination.
Example Lesson: The discovery of self-identity
Explanation: Throughout her adventures, September explores different aspects of her personality and what truly matters to her, which contributes to her growth and self-discovery.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their own interests and values, helping them build their own identity and confidence in who they are and what they stand for.