The Shadow-Cage: And Other Tales of the Supernatural
What’s inside...
This is a collection, both haunting and mysterious, created from everyday life and ordinary things. Philippa Pearce is also the author of Tom's Midnight Garden. Drawings augment the suggestion of menace in familiar things conveyed in ten intriguing, original tales about supernatural occurrences.
Age
9-12
Length
150 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the shadow in 'The Shadow-Cage' represents? How does it make the characters feel?
Can you describe a time when you felt similar to a character in these stories? What happened and how did you handle it?
Why do you think the author chose to write about supernatural events? What makes these stories exciting or interesting?
How do the characters in the stories change from the beginning to the end? What do you think caused those changes?
Which story was your favorite and why? Would you like to read more stories like this?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your thoughts on the supernatural elements in the book and asking your child if anything similar has ever sparked their imagination. Utilize the open-ended questions to encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Listen actively and validate their feelings, showing genuine interest in their perspectives. Discuss the characters' decisions and actions in the book to help your child connect the stories to their own experiences. Wrap up by asking if they learned anything new or if there's anything they would do differently than the characters in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy and understanding
Explanation: Characters in the stories often face supernatural challenges that require them to understand and empathize with others, even those who are different from them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to put themselves in others' shoes, understanding different perspectives, which is crucial in fostering inclusivity and kindness.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Many tales in 'The Shadow-Cage' illustrate how characters' actions lead to various outcomes, emphasizing the idea that every action has a consequence.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to think before they act and consider the potential effects their actions may have on themselves and others.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of the unknown
Explanation: The supernatural elements in the stories often put characters in situations where they must be brave, despite fearing the unknown.
Real-World Application: By reading these stories, kids can learn the value of facing their fears and the importance of courage when encountering new experiences or challenges.
Example Lesson: The power of imagination
Explanation: Philippa Pearce's vivid storytelling highlights the strength and creative potential of the human mind through imaginative and otherworldly scenarios.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination not only to entertain themselves but also as a tool for problem-solving and creativity in real life.
Example Lesson: Moral integrity
Explanation: Characters are often rewarded for good deeds and face consequences for immoral actions, reinforcing the significance of moral integrity.
Real-World Application: This story can serve as a foundation for children to develop a strong moral compass, guiding them to make ethical decisions throughout their lives.