The Shepherd's Crown
#41 of 41 in Discworld Series
on Goodreads (32,599)
What’s inside...
A shivering of worlds. Deep in the Chalk, something is stirring. The owls and the foxes can sense it, and Tiffany Aching feels it in her boots. An old enemy is gathering strength. This is a time of endings and beginnings, old friends and new, a blurring of edges and a shifting of power. Now Tiffany stands between the light and the dark, the good and the bad. As the fairy horde prepares for invasion, Tiffany must summon all the witches to stand with her. To protect the land. Her land. There will be a reckoning…
Character compass
Tiffany Aching
Geoffrey
Rob Anybody
Gytha 'Nanny' Ogg
Lord Peaseblossom
Queen Nightshade
Granny Weatherwax
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make Tiffany Aching a good leader? Give examples from the book.
How do the various characters in the book handle loss and grief? What can we learn from their experiences?
What role does the community play in overcoming challenges in the story?
How does Tiffany's view of responsibility evolve throughout the book? What responsibilities do you have at home or school?
What did you learn about the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it’s difficult?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences to the story’s events and characters to enhance understanding and empathy. Ask them how they might react in similar situations as Tiffany. Provide positive reinforcement when they express their thoughts and opinions, irrespective of whether you agree or not, fostering a safe space for open dialogue. Emphasize the significance of themes like leadership and community, asking how these concepts can be applied in their daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'The Shepherd's Crown', young protagonist Tiffany Aching takes on the role of the Witch of the Chalk, showing how she handles her duties with diligence and compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of responsibility by observing how taking care of their own tasks, such as homework or chores, can positively impact their family and community.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Tiffany faces numerous challenges and threats with bravery. Her courage in defending her land and people is a central theme.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face their fears and challenges, whether it’s standing up to a bully, trying out for a team, or speaking in front of a class.
Example Lesson: The importance of community
Explanation: The book illustrates how individuals within a community support and rely on each other, highlighting scenes where characters come together to overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value teamwork and understand how their contributions can help in family projects, school assignments, or when helping friends.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Tiffany shows deep empathy towards both friends and foes, trying to understand their motives and feelings.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of considering others' perspectives and feelings in resolving conflicts and building strong relationships.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: As Tiffany adjusts to her new role and the changes around her, the story promotes adaptability.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn from this the ability to adapt to new situations such as moving to a new school or dealing with changes within the family.