The Secret Gift
#1 of 2 in The Queen's Rising Series
on Goodreads (306)
What’s inside...
At Christmas time, Steven, who is adjusting to a new home and school, is disappointed to find only two presents for him under his grandmother's Christmas tree. Both gifts contain just paper and a box of crayons. Despite his initial disappointment, Steven decides to draw a picture for his grandmother. To his astonishment, the picture comes to life, and Steven discovers he can use the crayons to transport himself into any adventure he imagines. He draws food, toys, and a candy land, embarking on various adventures such as riding a hot air balloon, becoming king of a village, and hiking in a jungle. Each adventure ends when he puts the crayons away, returning him safely to his bed. However, one night, he notices a strange, orange light under his door after an adventure, leaving him curious and intrigued. Through his experiences, Steven learns that people are more valuable than things, using his simple gifts to create joy and adventure. In the realm of Jinn, enchantments and magical abilities are conceived and often exploited. At 17-years-old, Jezebel has developed a powerful shape-shifting Gift—and she’s determined to keep it a secret. When her friends find a portal to the human world, she reluctantly follows. There, she’s tempted to embrace her Gift. Unfortunately, one of her friends witnesses her secret, and he won’t let it go. He pushes her to use her ability for his own selfish purposes, no matter the cost. But when he crosses a line, Jezebel hits her breaking point. How far will his betrayal push her? THE SECRET GIFT is the first book in THE QUEEN’S RISE series, inspired by your favorite villains in Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, and Beauty and the Beast. It’s a spin-off from The Stolen Kingdom Series, but can also be read on its own. Over a century before the evil Queen Jezebel crosses paths with Arie, Rena, and Nesrin, she’s just an innocent Jinni girl… who was betrayed.
Discussion points
What do you think makes the gift in the story so special?
How do you feel about the choices the main character made?
What would you do if you received a similar mysterious gift?
How do the characters in the story show kindness and why is that important?
Can you think of a time when you had to keep a secret or give a surprise gift? How did it make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Highlight the emotions depicted in the story, and ask your child how they relate to them.
Discuss the moral lessons learned by the characters and engage your child by asking how they would have behaved in similar situations.
Encourage your child to imagine alternate endings to the story and how different choices could lead to different outcomes.
Use expressive reading techniques to enhance the mysterious and magical elements of the story, making the reading experience more immersive.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life events in your child’s experience to deepen their understanding and connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: In 'The Secret Gift', the protagonist learns to understand and share the feelings of another character who is different from them. This helps in resolving conflicts and building friendships throughout the story.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy in their daily interactions at school or at home by considering others' perspectives and feelings, which can lead to more harmonious relationships.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The main character is tasked with a special gift that requires care and attention. This plot element teaches the importance of being responsible and diligent.
Real-World Application: Kids can relate this to taking care of their own belongings, completing homework, or handling pets, training them to be accountable for their duties.
Example Lesson: The value of honesty
Explanation: Throughout the story, truthfulness leads to positive outcomes, while deceit complicates situations. The character's journey highlights trust built on honesty.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being truthful in real life situations, which can enhance trust and open communication with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: As the characters in 'The Secret Gift' confront various challenges, they learn about bravery and the benefits of facing their fears directly, rather than avoiding them.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face their own fears such as trying out for a team, speaking in front of a class, or standing up for what is right, boosting their confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity
Explanation: Curiosity leads the characters to explore and discover new things about the world around them in 'The Secret Gift', making learning a continual adventure.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to ask questions and explore subjects that interest them can foster a lifelong love for learning and discovery.