The Shadows of Rookhaven
#2 of 2 in The Monsters of Rookhaven Series
What’s inside...
Shadows are gathering over Rookhaven during The Great Configuration, a once in a hundred years event, drawing family and monsters from across the country. Amid the guests is a disguised interloper with destructive intentions. Meanwhile, Mirabelle, part human, part monster, learns she is not considered family outside Rookhaven. In her quest for her true history, she risks everything and everyone. This is the gripping sequel to the previous tale set in the mystical world of Rookhaven.
Discussion points
How would you feel if you were Mirabelle discovering the mysteries of Rookhaven? What would you do in her situation?
What do you think the monsters in the story represent? Can you think of any 'monsters' in real life that might not be as scary as they seem?
Friendship plays an important role in 'The Shadows of Rookhaven'. How do you think the characters’ relationships affect their decisions?
Why do you think the villagers are afraid of the family in Rookhaven? How does this change throughout the story?
If you had to create a safe space like Rookhaven, what would it look like and who would you invite to live there?
Tip: Role play these questions
Emphasize understanding and empathy by asking your child to consider each character's feelings and motives.
Highlight the importance of confronting fear and the unknown, drawing parallels between the story and real-life situations.
Encourage your child to explore themes of acceptance and community, discussing how these elements are important in their own lives.
Facilitate a discussion on the moral dilemmas presented in the book, asking what your child would do in similar circumstances.
Stimulate creativity by asking your child to imagine their version of Rookhaven and who they would include in their safe space.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'The Shadows of Rookhaven', characters like Mirabelle and the members of her unusual family display empathy despite their differences. They show understanding and form bonds with humans who initially fear them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to empathize with classmates who may seem different from them, recognizing that everyone has their own story and deserves kindness.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: The novel showcases how Mirabelle and her family confront the mystery of the shadows and the intrusive humans with bravery. Their courage in exploring unknown phenomena and standing up to threats is a central theme.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of facing new challenges fearlessly, whether it's moving to a new city, starting a new school, or standing up against bullying.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community
Explanation: Despite being a family of monsters, the close-knit bond they share is pivotal to overcoming obstacles. The book highlights how they support and protect each other through various hardships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of maintaining strong relationships with their family and friends, understanding that a supportive community is crucial during difficult times.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of diversity
Explanation: The family in 'The Shadows of Rookhaven' consists of various monsters, each with unique abilities and appearances, promoting diversity and acceptance among the characters.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate diversity in their own communities and learn to accept and celebrate differences in others around them.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The characters frequently face adversities and disruptions to their life but show remarkable resilience in adapting and thriving despite these challenges.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to develop resilience in their own lives, helping them to bounce back from setbacks and emerge stronger.