The Springsweet
#2 in Vespertine Series
on Goodreads (862)
What’s inside...
When seventeen-year-old Zora Stewart arrives in the frontier town of West Glory, Oklahoma, to help her widowed aunt, she discovers that she possesses the astonishing ability to sense water under the parched earth. When her aunt hires her out as a 'springsweet' to advise settlers where to dig their wells, Zora feels the burden of holding the key to something so essential to survival in this unforgiving land. Even more, she finds herself longing for love the way the prairie thirsts for water. Maybe, in the wildness of the territories, Zora can finally move beyond simply surviving and start living.
Character compass
Zora Stewart
Theo
Emerson Birch
Birdie
Discussion points
What do you think Zora felt when she moved to the frontier? Have you ever felt similar when going somewhere new?
How do you think dealing with the elements showed Zora’s strengths and weaknesses?
What does the spring mean to Zora and why do you think it's important?
How do the relationships Zora forms in Oklahoma change her perspective on life and loss?
If you had a special ability like Zora, how would you use it to help others around you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Zora’s shoes, discussing how they might feel in her situation.
Discuss the historical setting of the book and how it influences the characters’ decisions and lifestyle.
Explore the theme of resilience, asking your child to share a time when they had to be resilient.
Bring attention to Zora’s growth throughout the book, prompting your child to think about how they have grown or changed recently.
Use Zora’s special ability to spark a conversation about personal talents and how your child might use theirs positively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Zora, faces numerous challenges after the loss of her fiancé but learns to adapt and find new purpose in her life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of overcoming obstacles and adapting to changes, even when circumstances are tough.
Example Lesson: The value of independence
Explanation: Zora moves from the city to the frontier, which teaches her to rely on herself and make her own decisions.
Real-World Application: Promotes the importance of self-reliance and making decisions independently, especially in new environments.
Example Lesson: The importance of emotional expression
Explanation: Throughout the book, Zora learns to express her grief and other emotions, which aids her healing process.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to express their feelings openly and seek support when needed.
Example Lesson: Building new relationships
Explanation: Zora forms new friendships and relationships in her new home, which plays a crucial role in her adjustment and happiness.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of being open to forming new connections and the positive impact this can have on one's life.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Zora learns to understand and empathize with the struggles of others around her, growing as an individual.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more empathetic and considerate, understanding different perspectives and supporting others.