The Velvet Fox
#2 of 3 in The Clockwork Crow Series
What’s inside...
After rescuring Tomos from faery enchantment, orphan Seren Rhys wants nothing more than to enjoy her new life at Plas-y-Fran. But then a mysterious new governess arrives in a gust of leaves, bearing both a magical toy carousel and troublesome beliefs about Seren's right to an education. As her new family falls under the governess's spell and the carousel figures stalk the house, Seren calls upon her old friend the Clockwork Crow for help. Yet even the Crow fears the creature known as the Velvet Fox, and Seren will need to use her smarts to overcome the dangers around her and protect what she loves. Brimming with Welsh folklore and atmosphere, Catherine Fisher's latest tale of Plas-y-Fran will delight readers and wrap them within its spell.
Character compass
Seren Rhys
The Clockwork Crow
Tom
Ms. Cadwallader
Discussion points
What do you think motivates the Velvet Fox throughout the story?
How did the relationships between characters change from the beginning to the end of the book?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to any of the characters in the story?
What would you have done differently if you were in the protagonist's situation?
How does the setting influence the events in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their emotions about the story, relating it to their own experiences.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the book to enhance their analytical skills.
Discuss the moral lessons of the story and how they can be applied in real-life scenarios.
Create a fun environment for discussion, perhaps setting up a ‘book club’ feel with snacks.
Use follow-up questions to dive deeper into your child's thoughts and perspectives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: In 'The Velvet Fox', the protagonist faces numerous challenges but continues to strive towards her goals, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to persist in their studies or hobbies, even when they face difficulties, learning that perseverance often leads to success.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: The characters in the book develop strong bonds and support each other, showing the power of friendship.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the value of building and maintaining positive relationships in school and in their community.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: Actions of the characters in 'The Velvet Fox' have clear consequences, which are portrayed throughout the narrative, teaching children that actions have effects.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in a child's life by teaching them to think before acting and to consider the potential consequences of their actions.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: The characters often venture into unknown situations which require bravery, illustrating the virtue of courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face new challenges and unfamiliar situations with confidence, whether it's attending a new school or trying a new activity.
Example Lesson: The significance of problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout 'The Velvet Fox', the characters encounter various problems that they must work through, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children apply logical reasoning to work through problems they encounter in academics or in personal situations.