The Guardian Test: Legends of Lotus Island
#1 of 4 in Legends of Lotus Island Series
What’s inside...
From two-time Newbery honor recipient Christina Soontornvat comes a compelling new young middle grade fantasy series. Young Plum struggles at the Guardian Academy on Lotus Island, where kids learn to transform into Guardians to protect the natural world. Despite difficulties and being unable to transform, Plum discovers the power of friendship and fights to embrace her inner magical creature.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the characters to participate in the Guardian Test?
How do you think teamwork played a role in the challenges they faced?
Can you relate to any of the characters’ feelings or actions? Why or why not?
What would you have done differently if you were in the situation of the main character?
How do you think the setting of Lotus Island influenced the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before discussing the book, encourage your child to summarize the story in their own words. This exercise helps them recall details and engage more deeply with the narrative.
While discussing the characters' motivations, relate them to real-life scenarios your child might face to foster a deeper understanding and personal connection.
Highlight the importance of teamwork and ask your child about times when they had to work with others to achieve a common goal.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or different choices the characters could have made, which helps develop their critical thinking and creativity.
Discuss the unique aspects of Lotus Island, encouraging your child to describe how they envision such a setting, enhancing their imaginative and descriptive skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in 'The Guardian Test: Legends of Lotus Island' must work together to overcome challenges and protect their island. This cooperation highlights how teamwork is crucial to accomplishing significant tasks.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to collaborate and value each team member’s contributions.
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: Throughout the book, the young guardians face fears and step out of their comfort zones. This exemplifies the importance of bravery in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Kids can embrace this lesson by trying new activities that might seem intimidating at first, helping them grow and gain confidence.
Example Lesson: The power of honesty
Explanation: Characters in the story learn that honesty leads to trust and better relationships. The narrative reinforces that truthfulness is vital, even when it's difficult.
Real-World Application: This can be reflected in a child’s life by encouraging them to be honest in their interactions and dealings, fostering trust and respect in their relationships.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The island itself is a crucial element in the book, with characters learning to live in harmony with their environment. This shows children the importance of respect and care for nature.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more environmentally conscious, engaging in activities like recycling, conserving water, or planting trees.
Example Lesson: Learning from mistakes
Explanation: The young protagonists often learn from their mistakes, which are depicted as opportunities for growth rather than failures.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to view their own mistakes as chances to learn and improve, rather than feeling defeated by setbacks.