The Sea of Trolls
#1 of 3 in Sea of Trolls Series
on Goodreads (16,143)
What’s inside...
The year is A.D. 793; Jack and his sister have been kidnapped by Vikings and taken to the court of Ivar the Boneless and his terrifying half-troll wife. Jack soon finds himself on a perilous quest to find the magical Mimir's Well in a distant land, with his sister's life at stake if he fails. Along the way, he encounters a myriad of dangers including a mother Dragon, a giant spider, and a troll-boar, not to mention the formidable Ivar the Boneless and his shape-shifting wife. Award-winning author Nancy Farmer delivers a rich, humorous tale with a message of resilience for young adventurers.
Character compass
Jack
Thorgil
Lucy
The Bard
Frith Halftroll
Olaf One-Brow
Jack Tenpenny
Discussion points
How did Jack's journey through the Sea of Trolls change him? What qualities did he gain or lose?
Why do you think the author chose to blend Norse mythology with historical elements in the story?
What role does courage play in the characters' adventures throughout the book?
How do the relationships between characters like Jack, Thorgil, and the Bard evolve over the course of the story?
What can we learn from the way different cultures and characters interact in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the characters' experiences to their own life. For example, ask how they might feel or react in a similar situation as Jack or Thorgil.
Discuss the historical and mythological elements in the book. Help your child research more about Norse mythology or the Viking era to deepen their understanding and interest.
Highlight the development of friendships and the importance of teamwork in the book. Ask your child about their thoughts on cooperation and how it is portrayed in the story.
After reading, use creative activities like drawing or writing to let your child express which scenes or characters were most impactful to them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Jack, faces numerous challenges and threats from trolls and other mythical creatures. Throughout these trials, Jack's bravery and determination shine through.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of standing strong and persistent, even when situations seem daunting or fearful, which is crucial in facing everyday challenges and uncertainties.
Example Lesson: The value of empathy and understanding
Explanation: Jack's journey involves interactions with various creatures and characters, leading him to understand and empathize with perspectives different from his own.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be considerate and open-minded towards others' feelings and viewpoints, promoting social harmony and inclusivity in their interactions.
Example Lesson: The significance of personal growth and self-discovery
Explanation: As Jack undertakes his quest, he learns more about his own capabilities and limits, which is crucial for his survival and success.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore and embrace their unique talents and weaknesses, fostering a sense of self-awareness and continuous personal development.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, Jack often collaborates with his sister and new friends he meets along his journey. This collective effort is key in overcoming the challenges they face.
Real-World Application: Highlights the benefits of working together and supporting each other, skills that are essential in school projects, family responsibilities, and future workplace environments.
Example Lesson: Resilience in overcoming loss and change
Explanation: Jack experiences loss and has to adapt to new environments throughout the book, learning to accept and grow from these experiences.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of change or loss, helping them to manage transitions and setbacks in their own lives.