#3 in Rangers Apprentice Series
The Icebound Land
on Goodreads (90,374)
What’s inside...
The story continues with the adventure of young Will and his mentor, Halt, who have been taken prisoners by the Skandians. As they struggle to survive the harsh winter conditions of the Icebound Land, their friends from Araluan embark on a mission to rescue them.
Character compass
Discussion points
How do you think Will and Evanlyn's relationship evolves throughout their journey? What do their experiences teach them about trust and friendship?
What strategies does Will use to cope with his challenges in Skandia? How can these strategies be applied to difficult situations in our own lives?
Why is it important for Erak to show kindness to Will and Evanlyn, despite them being prisoners? What does this tell us about the impact of compassion?
How does the setting of Skandia influence the events and characters in the story? Can you think of ways the environment shapes our own behaviors and decisions?
What lessons can we learn about perseverance and courage from the characters’ adventures in 'The Icebound Land'?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, emphasize the importance of overcoming adversity, relating it to everyday challenges your child might face.
Encourage your child to think critically about the characters' decisions and motivations, asking what they might have done differently in similar situations.
Use examples from the book to have a broader conversation about themes like friendship, loyalty, and resilience.
Connect the story's events to personal experiences or current events to deepen understanding and relevance.
Foster empathy by discussing the different emotional journeys of the characters and asking how your child feels about them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'The Icebound Land', the protagonist Will endures captivity and harsh conditions but perseveres through sheer determination and inner strength.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face challenging situations in their own lives with fortitude and not give up easily, understanding that perseverance can lead to overcoming difficulties.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout their journey, Will and his friend Horace rely on each other and work together to face obstacles, showcasing the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of cooperation and how working together can help solve problems that might seem insurmountable individually.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding different perspectives
Explanation: Characters in the book often encounter people from different backgrounds and cultures, learning to understand and empathize with them.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of empathy and respecting others' viewpoints, fostering social harmony and better interpersonal relationships in their own environments.
Example Lesson: Strategizing and problem-solving
Explanation: Will and his allies frequently use clever strategies to navigate through difficult scenarios, demonstrating critical thinking and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to think critically and creatively when faced with challenges, enhancing their problem-solving skills in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: The value of hope and positive thinking
Explanation: Despite the bleak circumstances, the characters in 'The Icebound Land' maintain hope and a positive outlook, which are crucial in their survival and eventual success.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to remain hopeful and positive even in tough times, which can be crucial for mental and emotional health.