The Iron Witch
#1 in The Iron Witch Series
on Goodreads (9,804)
What’s inside...
When she was seven, a horrific fey attack killed Donna Underwood's father and drove her mother mad. Her own nearly fatal injuries were fixed by alchemy—the iron tattoos branding her hands and arms. Now seventeen, Donna feels like a freak, doomed by the magical heritage that destroyed her parents and any chance she had for a normal life. Only her relationship with her best friend, Navin, is keeping her sane. But when vicious wood elves abduct Navin, Donna is forced to accept her role in the centuries-old war between human alchemists and these darkest outcasts of Faerie. Assisted by Xan, a gorgeous guy with faery blood running through his veins and secrets of his own, Donna races to save Navin—even if it means betraying everything her parents fought to the death to protect.
Why read this book
- Engages with themes of resilience and self-discovery.
- Encourages creativity through fantastical elements.
- Strengthens reading skills with complex, engaging narrative.
- Addresses facing fears and overcoming obstacles.
Character compass
Donna Underwood
Alexander Noble
Navin Sharma
Aunt Paige
Discussion points
How do you think Donna felt when she discovered her powers and how would you feel in her place?
What do you think are the strengths and weaknesses of being 'different' like Donna?
Can you think of a time when you had to overcome a challenge and how did you manage it?
Why do you think friendship is important in Donna’s journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to put themselves in Donna’s shoes, discussing her feelings and reactions throughout the story.
Discuss the concept of 'difference' and diversity, prompting your child to talk about times they felt different and how it affected them.
Highlight the theme of resilience and overcoming adversity. Ask your child about challenges they've faced and how they've dealt with them.
Foster a deeper understanding of relationships by talking about Donna’s friendships and how they support her journey.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Donna, faces numerous challenges due to her unique abilities and appearance but shows remarkable bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing difficulties with courage, reinforcing resilience in problematic situations in their lives.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Throughout the book, Donna relies on her close friends to overcome obstacles, highlighting the strength found in trusting relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to nurture trust and teamwork in their friendships to overcome challenges together.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of self and others
Explanation: Donna's journey includes coming to terms with her own identity and accepting her differences, which is a crucial theme in the story.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of self-acceptance and the acceptance of others' differences, promoting empathy and inclusion.
Example Lesson: Consequences of choices
Explanation: Decisions made by characters in the book, good and bad, have clear consequences. It illustrates the impact of one’s actions.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that their choices have consequences, guiding them to make thoughtful decisions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance towards goals
Explanation: Despite setbacks, Donna persists in her quest, showing dedication and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to stay committed to their goals, highlighting the value of persistence even when faced with difficulties.