The Guinevere Deception: Camelot Rising
#1 of 3 in Camelot Rising Series
on Goodreads (22,037)
What’s inside...
A new fantasy series set in the world of Camelot that bestselling author Christina Lauren calls brilliant, reimagining the Arthurian legend . . . where nothing is as magical and terrifying as a girl. Princess Guinevere has come to Camelot to wed a stranger: the charismatic King Arthur. With magic clawing at the kingdom's borders, the great wizard Merlin conjured a solution--send in Guinevere to be Arthur's wife . . . and his protector from those who want to see the young king's idyllic city fail. The catch? Guinevere's real name--and her true identity--is a secret. She is a changeling, a girl who has given up everything to protect Camelot. To keep Arthur safe, Guinevere must navigate a court in which the old--including Arthur's own family--demand things continue as they have been, and the new--those drawn by the dream of Camelot--fight for a better way to live. And always, in the green hearts of forests and the black depths of lakes, magic lies in wait to reclaim the land. Deadly jousts, duplicitous knights, and forbidden romances are nothing compared to the greatest threat of all: the girl with the long black hair, riding on horseback through the dark woods toward Arthur. Because when your whole existence is a lie, how can you trust even yourself? *THE FIRST BOOK IN THE CAMELOT RISING TRILOGY*
Character compass
Guinevere
King Arthur
Brangien
Lancelot
Mordred
Discussion points
How do the characters' choices in the book influence the outcome of the plot? Which choice was the most pivotal?
What role does trust play in Guinevere’s relationships with other characters? Can you identify a scene where trust was tested?
Discuss the themes of power and deceit in the story. How do these themes impact the characters' interactions and the world of Camelot?
Guinevere takes on various roles throughout the book. Which role do you think was most challenging for her and why?
How does the author use the setting of Camelot to enhance the story? What specific elements of the setting stood out to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage thoughtful reflection by asking your child to relate the scenarios in the book to their own experiences. Prompt them to think about the ethical dilemmas faced by characters and ask what they might have done differently in those situations. Highlight the historical and mythical aspects of Camelot, and discuss how legends like these can be interpreted differently by different people. Lastly, underline the importance of perspective-taking by discussing the story from the viewpoint of different characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: Throughout 'The Guinevere Deception', the protagonist, Guinevere, uses her wit and intelligence to solve mysteries and protect the kingdom. Her actions demonstrate the importance of questioning and not taking things at face value.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by analyzing situations more carefully and making informed decisions rather than just accepting things as they are presented.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Guinevere frequently faces dangerous situations in her quest to protect Camelot. Her courage in confronting these challenges highlights the value of bravery in the face of danger or uncertainty.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to face their own fears and show bravery in difficult or new situations, whether it's trying out for a sports team or standing up against bullying.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Loyalty
Explanation: Loyalty is a recurrent theme in the story, as shown by Guinevere’s commitment to King Arthur and Camelot. This loyalty drives her actions and helps in maintaining the stability of the kingdom.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of being loyal to friends and family, understanding that trust and fidelity are foundational to strong, supportive relationships.
Example Lesson: Identity and Self-discovery
Explanation: Guinevere struggles with her secret past and true identity throughout the book. Her journey of self-discovery is central to the plot, emphasizing the importance of understanding oneself.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children embrace their unique qualities and embark on their personal journeys of self-discovery, appreciating that self-awareness is key to personal growth.