The Sinister Booksellers of Bath
#2 of 3 in Left-Handed Booksellers of London Series
on Goodreads (6,466)
What’s inside...
Return to the enchanting world of The Left-Handed Booksellers of London in this sequel by Garth Nix. The story revolves around a team of booksellers who must tackle the danger arising from the discovery of a sorcerous map. Left-handed bookseller Merlin, his sister Vivien, a right-handed bookseller, and art student Susan Arkshaw journey to a place separated from this world, maintained by deadly sorcery and guarded by monstrous living statues. They must investigate centuries of disappearances and deaths to unravel the secrets of a murderous Ancient Sovereign, a serial killer who must be stopped before she kills again.
Discussion points
What do you think motivates the booksellers to be sinister? How do their actions affect others in the story?
How would you feel if you stumbled upon a mystery like the characters in the book? What would you do differently?
Can you identify any moral lessons that the characters learn throughout their adventures?
How do the settings in Bath contribute to the story's mysterious atmosphere? Which place in the book would you like to visit and why?
If you could ask the author one question about this book, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story freely. Make sure to listen actively, showing interest in their opinions.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the book’s events and their own experiences. This can help deepen their understanding and empathy for the characters.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to the key questions. This can help extend the conversation and encourage critical thinking.
Consider researching some historical and cultural facts about Bath with your child, to enrich the context of the story and enhance their learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage
Explanation: The protagonist consistently faces challenges and demonstrates bravery in tackling obstacles presented by the sinister booksellers.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their fears and overcome challenges, whether it's trying something new or standing up for what's right.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters must collaborate to solve the mysteries and deal with the booksellers, showing that cooperation is key to success.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of working with others to achieve common goals, useful in group projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Importance of knowledge and learning
Explanation: The characters often use their knowledge and learned skills to decipher clues and outsmart their foes, portraying learning as a tool of empowerment.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to see reading and education as not only necessary but as a powerful asset in understanding and interacting with the world around them.