The Pearl Hunter
on Goodreads (393)
What’s inside...
In a world inspired by pre-Shogun era Japan, a young pearl diver named Kai embarks on a perilous quest to rescue her twin sister, Kishi, who has been stolen by a ghost whale. Kai, who is known for pushing boundaries, must strike a deal with the gods to trade a magic pearl for her sister's soul. As she journeys across dangerous landscapes, she encounters bandits, a warlord, and fox spirits. Along the way, Kai forms a friendship that challenges her love for her sister, forcing her to make impossible choices and risk everything to return home. This debut fantasy, rich with Japanese culture and legends, captures the essence of sibling love and the lengths one will go to save family.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-13
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when they found the pearl?
What would you do if you were in the main character's place?
Why is the pearl important in the story?
What did the main character learn by the end of the book?
How did the other characters in the book react to the discovery of the pearl?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, ensuring they feel heard and understood.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life experiences or decisions your child might face, to deepen their understanding.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to enhance their creative thinking.
Discuss the moral or lesson of the story and how it can be applied in daily life, fostering ethical reasoning.
Utilize expressive reading strategies, altering your tone and pace, to keep the story engaging and dynamic.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance pays off
Explanation: The story follows the journey of the main character who tirelessly searches for a precious pearl, showcasing determination in the face of challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persistence and hard work in achieving goals, whether in academics or personal pursuits.
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: The protagonist faces multiple situations where honesty is tested. Choosing truth each time, the character exemplifies integrity.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to uphold honesty in their daily interactions and decisions, fostering trust and respect from others.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The hunter’s journey highlights the beauty and fragility of the marine ecosystem, instilling a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to appreciate and care for the environment, understanding the impact of their actions on nature.
Example Lesson: The power of curiosity
Explanation: Curiosity drives the pearl hunter to explore unknown territories, leading to transformative experiences and learning.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be inquisitive and explore new ideas, which aids in intellectual and personal growth.