The Vespertine
#1 in Vespertine Series
on Goodreads (3,201)
What’s inside...
It's the summer of 1889, and Amelia van den Broek is new to Baltimore and eager to take in all the pleasures the city has to offer. But her gaiety is interrupted by disturbing, dreamlike visions she has only at sunset—visions that offer glimpses of the future. Soon, friends and strangers alike call on Amelia to hear her prophecies. But when one of her darkest visions comes to pass, Amelia's world is thrown into chaos. And those around her begin to wonder if she's not the seer of dark portents, but the cause.
Character compass
Amelia Van Den Broek
Zora Stewart
Thomas Rea
Nathaniel Witherspoon
Discussion points
How did Amelia's gift impact her relationships with those around her? Do you think it's important to understand and accept differences in others?
What role does the setting play in the story and how does it enhance the atmosphere of 'The Vespertine'?
How do the characters in the book handle secrets and what consequences arise from them? Have you ever experienced a situation where a secret affected your life?
In what ways do the friendships in the story change over time? How do you think true friendship should be depicted?
How does Amelia's journey throughout the book shape her understanding of personal freedom and constraint?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters' decisions, and relate them to real-life situations they might encounter.
Discuss the historical setting of the book and how it influences the characters' actions and societal expectations.
Ask your child to consider the different ways the characters could have resolved their conflicts and compare them to their own problem-solving strategies.
Explore themes of friendship and loyalty with your child, discussing the qualities they value most in their own friendships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: In 'The Vespertine,' the protagonist, Amelia, forges a strong friendship that helps her navigate through her personal struggles and the complexities of her supernatural abilities.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of supporting and confiding in friends during challenging times, enhancing their social and emotional skills.
Example Lesson: Understanding and embracing differences
Explanation: Amelia's journey includes coming to terms with her own unique powers, which sets her apart from others. This aspect of the story highlights the importance of accepting oneself and others' differences.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate diversity and encourages self-acceptance and acceptance of others in their real-world interactions.
Example Lesson: Consequences of choices
Explanation: Throughout the book, Amelia makes choices which have significant consequences, demonstrating that actions have weight and can affect not only the individual but also those around them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to think critically about the potential outcomes of their decisions and to be mindful of their actions in their everyday lives.
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: Amelia often faces difficult situations that require bravery. Her courage in dealing with her mysterious foresight abilities and the societal implications teaches a powerful lesson.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own challenges with bravery, knowing that they can overcome obstacles with determination.
Example Lesson: The impact of societal expectations
Explanation: Set in the 19th century, the story explores how societal expectations influence the characters' lives, particularly in terms of gender roles and social standings.
Real-World Application: Children can reflect on how societal norms and expectations can influence behavior and choices, promoting critical thinking about how they perceive and are influenced by societal norms today.