The Girl from the Well
#1 of 2 in The Girl from the Well Series
on Goodreads (14,531)
What’s inside...
From the highly acclaimed author of the Bone Witch trilogy comes a chilling story, The Girl from the Well. It tells of Okiku, a lonely Japanese ghost who wanders the world freeing the spirits of the murdered-dead and taking vengeance on killers. Her existence changes when she meets Tark, a moody teen with evil trapped beneath his skin by tattoos. Okiku knows Tark isn't a monster and seeks to free him from the malevolence, even though his death could mean the demon's end. This suspenseful and creepy novel has received praise for its haunting narrative and eerie depiction of Japanese horror, myth, and legend.
Character compass
Okiku
Callie
Tarquin Halloway
Yoko Halloway
Doug Halloway
Calliope Starr
Okiku/The Girl in White
Discussion points
How do you think Okiku feels about being a spirit and taking vengeance? Why?
What lessons can we learn about forgiveness and letting go from Okiku's story?
How do the characters in the book cope with their fears? What can we learn from them?
In what ways do the characters show strength or courage? Which actions were most impactful?
If you were Rin, how would you try to help Okiku find peace?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their emotions about the book’s eerie and suspenseful themes, ensuring a safe space for them to explore their feelings. Use the questions to guide a discussion on the moral challenges faced by the characters, focusing on empathy and understanding. Highlight connections between the book’s themes and real-life situations, promoting critical thinking. Support your child in drawing parallels between the courage shown by characters and how they can exhibit bravery in their own lives. Take the opportunity to explore cultural history and folklore, enriching their understanding of the story’s context.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Consequences
Explanation: The story portrays how actions have repercussions, emphasizing the importance of thinking before acting.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of considering the consequences before making decisions in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The narrative encourages feeling empathy for others, even those who might seem different or frightening at first.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop a deeper understanding and kindness towards people from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: Characters in the book face fears and challenges, demonstrating bravery and persistence.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their own fears and challenges with courage, understanding that resilience is key to overcoming difficulties.
Example Lesson: The Power of Friendship
Explanation: The story highlights how friendships can provide support and strength in difficult times.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of building and maintaining strong friendships in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Justice and Moral Integrity
Explanation: The plot conveys a strong sense of right and wrong, advocating for justice and integrity.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of standing up for what is right and acting with honesty in their everyday life.