The Winter Place
#2 of 27 in Caribbean Archaeology and Ethnohistory Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
There is a middle world between life and death, and Tess must navigate it to save her brother in this heart-wrenching story infused with the fractured and fantastical realms of Finnish mysticism. Axel and Tess are bewildered when a stranger shows up in their backyard accompanied by a giant brown bear, but before they can investigate the bizarre encounter, something more harrowing happens: their father is killed in a freak car accident. Now orphaned, Tess and Axel are shipped off to Finland to live with grandparents who they’ve never met, and are stunned to discover that the mysterious stranger with the bear has found them again. More stunning—they come to understand that this man isn’t really a man…he’s a keeper of souls. And the bear isn’t really a bear…it’s a ghost. Their mother’s ghost. Wandering, endlessly, searching for their father. Then the Keeper invites Axel, who is fighting his symptoms of muscular dystrophy, to join the path of the dead—and when Axel disappears into the deep snow, Tess knows she must find a way to follow. There are mysteries connected to this peculiar man, this keeper, and if she can untangle them, she might not only save Axel, but also bring her parents peace.
Character compass
Axel
Tess
Father
Discussion points
How did Lex and Tess's adventure in the Winter Place make you feel, and why?
What do you think the wolves symbolize in the story?
If you were in Tess or Lex's shoes, how would you have handled the situation differently?
What do you think the author wants us to learn from Mr. Dalca's character?
How do you think the setting of the Winter Place affects the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book by sharing your own thoughts and reactions first.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book they found memorable and discuss why it stood out to them.
Connect the themes of the book to real-life situations by discussing similar decisions they might face and the possible outcomes.
Praise your child’s responses to nurture their confidence in expressing their thoughts and opinions about the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'The Winter Place', the characters, Tess and Axel, navigate the complexities of loss and grief after their mother's death and father's illness. Their journey symbolizes strength and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cope with challenging situations in their own lives, understanding that resilience can lead to personal growth and recovery.
Example Lesson: Importance of family bonds
Explanation: Throughout the story, the sibling relationship between Tess and Axel is pivotal. Despite difficult circumstances, their bond grows stronger, demonstrating the support family can provide.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value and nurture relationships with their siblings and family members, recognizing the unique support system they offer.
Example Lesson: Courage to embrace the unknown
Explanation: As Tess and Axel venture into the mystical world of 'The Winter Place', they confront various unknowns bravely. Their adventures teach them about courage and self-discovery.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to face new experiences and challenges with bravery, understanding that stepping out of their comfort zones can lead to significant personal development.
Example Lesson: Empathy for others
Explanation: The siblings encounter various characters with complex backgrounds and stories, learning to see the world from perspectives other than their own.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop empathy, teaching them to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering a more compassionate approach to those around them.