The Wicked King
#2 of 3 in The Folk of the Air Series
on Goodreads (940,081)
What’s inside...
After the jaw-dropping revelation that Oak is the heir to Faerie, Jude must keep her brother safe and to do so, she has bound the wicked king, Cardan, to her will. But the power struggle in the realm intensifies as new players enter the game and old enemies get stronger. Jude must navigate the constantly shifting political waters to maintain her control over Faerie, while her feelings for Cardan threaten to undermine her position and her heart. You must be strong enough to strike and strike and strike again without tiring. The first lesson is to make yourself strong.
Character compass
Jude Duarte
The Bomb
The Roach
Orlagh
Nicasia
Taryn Duarte
The Ghost
Locke
Balekin
Madoc
Cardan Greenbriar
Vivienne
Discussion points
How do you think Jude feels about being in a position of power in the Faerie world? What would you do if you were in her place?
The relationship between Jude and Cardan is complex. What are some reasons they might mistrust each other?
What are the consequences of betrayal and deception shown in the story? Can you think of a situation where being honest is difficult but important?
How do the characters in the book decide what is right and wrong in complex situations? Do you agree with their decisions?
What role does courage play in the story? Can you share a time when you had to be brave?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on the characters’ motives by asking them how they would feel or react in similar situations.
Discuss the theme of power and responsibility, emphasizing how choices have consequences that affect others.
Explore the moral dilemmas presented in the book to enhance your child’s critical thinking about right and wrong.
Connect the themes of the story to real-life examples, making the discussion relevant and meaningful.
Affirm your child’s thoughts and feelings throughout the conversation to promote a safe space for sharing personal views and experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences of actions
Explanation: Throughout 'The Wicked King,' characters make choices that lead to significant consequences. The story weaves a complex narrative that illustrates how one's decisions can impact themselves and others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by thinking through potential outcomes before making decisions, helping them develop foresight and responsibility.
Example Lesson: The importance of trust and loyalty
Explanation: The dynamics between characters in 'The Wicked King' highlight the complexities of trust and loyalty. The protagonist must navigate relationships that test these values, showing readers the importance of honesty and fidelity in interpersonal relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to value and nurture trust in their relationships with family and friends, recognizing its role in building strong connections.
Example Lesson: The power of resilience and determination
Explanation: Characters in 'The Wicked King' often face daunting challenges but demonstrate resilience and determination. This illustrates how perseverance and a strong will can enable individuals to overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persistence in achieving goals and overcoming challenges, whether in their academic pursuits, personal projects, or interpersonal conflicts.
Example Lesson: Navigating complex emotions
Explanation: The protagonist in 'The Wicked King' deals with a range of complex emotions, helping readers understand that it's normal to experience a spectrum of feelings, including confusion and conflict.
Real-World Application: This can help children recognize and manage their emotions more effectively, aiding in their emotional development and in building emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Strategic thinking and diplomacy
Explanation: The political intrigue and the strategies employed by the protagonist in 'The Wicked King' demonstrate the effectiveness of strategic thinking and diplomacy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply strategic thinking in problem-solving, group projects, or negotiating in daily interactions, enhancing their cognitive and social skills.