The Letterbox Tree
Adobe EPUB eBook Series
on Goodreads (76)
What’s inside...
Two of Australia's most acclaimed writers collaborate on a poignant and ultimately hopeful story set against the backdrop of a growing climate crisis. It intertwines the lives of two girls, Nyx and Bea, living in different times. Nyx resides in a dystopian 2093 Tasmania, ravaged by environmental disasters, where she finds comfort in an old pine tree and struggles with the idea of leaving her hometown where her mother is buried. Bea, living in the present-day Tasmania, also forms a bond with the same tree, using it as a refuge from bullying. They start a cross-time friendship through notes left in the tree, helping each other cope with their respective challenges and potentially altering the future.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
167 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the letterbox tree make you feel when you first read about it?
What would you place in the letterbox tree if you had a chance, and why?
How do you think the characters felt when they received a letter?
What changes did you notice in the characters from the beginning to the end of the story?
If you could write a letter to any character in the book, who would it be and what would you tell them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences or feelings to those of the characters. Pause at key moments in the story to ask your child to guess what might happen next or to express how a character’s decision might affect the outcome. After finishing the book, consider revisiting favorite passages and discussing why they stood out. Engage in a creative activity together, such as writing a letter or creating a drawing inspired by the story to deepen connection and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity and exploration
Explanation: In 'The Letterbox Tree', the protagonist embarks on an adventurous journey prompted by mysterious letters. This exploration leads to self-discovery and learning.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore new activities and areas of study to foster a lifelong love of learning and self-growth.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, the main character faces various challenges but continues to persevere, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This story can teach children the importance of persistence in overcoming obstacles in their education or personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Understanding and accepting differences
Explanation: The protagonist encounters diverse characters with unique perspectives, which teaches the value of empathy and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and celebrate differences among their peers, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: The power of kindness
Explanation: Acts of kindness by the protagonist lead to friendships and alliances that assist in their journey, showcasing the positive impacts of being kind.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to act kindly in their day-to-day interactions, thereby building stronger relationships.
Example Lesson: Environmental stewardship
Explanation: The story emphasizes the significance of nature and portrays the protagonist's efforts to protect their environment, instilling an early sense of responsibility towards nature.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to participate in environmental conservation practices such as recycling, and preserving natural spaces.