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#1 in The Mapmakers Trilogy Series

The Glass Sentence

3.82
on Goodreads (7,206)

What’s inside...

She has only seen the world through maps. She had no idea they were so dangerous.   Boston, 1891. Sophia Tims comes from a family of explorers and cartologers who, for generations, have been traveling and mapping the New World—a world changed by the Great Disruption of 1799, when all the continents were flung into different time periods.  Eight years ago, her parents left her with her uncle Shadrack, the foremost cartologer in Boston, and went on an urgent mission. They never returned. Life with her brilliant, absent-minded, adored uncle has taught Sophia to take care of herself. Then Shadrack is kidnapped. And Sophia, who has rarely been outside of Boston, is the only one who can search for him. Together with Theo, a refugee from the West, she travels over rough terrain and uncharted ocean, encounters pirates and traders, and relies on a combination of Shadrack’s maps, common sense, and her own slantwise powers of observation. But even as Sophia and Theo try to save Shadrack’s life, they are in danger of losing their own. The Glass Sentence plunges readers into a time and place they will not want to leave, and introduces them to a heroine and hero they will take to their hearts. It is a remarkable debut.
In series
Series reading
Sequential
Age
10-12
Length
493 pages
Text complexity

Discussion points

How do you think the world would look if maps could change the past, present, and future?
What qualities make Sophia a brave and determined character, and which of those qualities do you see in yourself?
If you could create a map like the ones in the book, what kind of map would it be and why?
How do the different lands in the book show the importance of understanding and accepting diverse cultures?
In what ways do the characters in the book show the importance of teamwork and trusting others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child their initial thoughts about the book and its characters to gauge their understanding and interest.
Relate the adventurous and exploratory themes of the book to your child’s own experiences or dreams of exploring new places.
Discuss the moral dilemmas that characters face to help your child develop empathy and decision-making skills.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite part or character and explore why they felt a connection.
Utilize maps from your own travels or local area to create a tangible connection between your child’s world and Sophia’s map-making adventures.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The importance of resilience and perseverance
Explanation: In 'The Glass Sentence', protagonist Sophia demonstrates resilience as she navigates a world thrown into different time periods, facing numerous challenges while searching for her kidnapped uncle.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to persist through difficulties in their studies or social interactions, understanding that overcoming obstacles is part of growth.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout her journey, Sophia relies on friends and allies, learning that teamwork can overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable alone.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of building friendships and cooperating with others in school projects or sports, fostering a sense of community and shared success.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Sophia's quest requires her to solve puzzles and decipher maps from different ages, showcasing her analytical skills and quick thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in activities that require critical thinking and problem-solving, such as puzzles, strategic games, or science projects, enhancing their cognitive abilities.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding diverse perspectives
Explanation: In the diverse world of 'The Glass Sentence', Sophia encounters cultures from various eras, learning to appreciate and understand different perspectives.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children in recognizing the value of diversity and practicing empathy in their day-to-day interactions with peers from different backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: As Sophia embarks on an unpredictable adventure, her courage in facing the unknown is a central theme.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to embrace new experiences, whether it’s trying out a new sport, attending a new school, or making new friends, thereby boosting their confidence and adaptability.