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The Coming of Hoole

#10 of 16 in The Guardians of Ga'Hoole Series

4.04
on Goodreads (5,793)

What’s inside...

The Coming of Hoole is the tenth installment in the Guardians of Ga'Hoole series. The story follows the young owl, Hoole, on his quest to fulfill his destiny and become a legendary king. Along the way, he encounters various challenges and adventures, learning valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and the importance of staying true to oneself. Grank raises Hoole deep in a forest far from enemies that would kill to end the royal line. His mother visits in disguise and departs without revealing her identity. As Hoole learns to fly, a hagsfiend sent by an evil warlord attempts to lure him away. Grank, realizing the danger, takes Hoole to Beyond the Beyond, a strange land of fiery volcanoes in a barren, icy landscape to keep him safe from the forces that killed his father. A tale of chaos, betrayal, and nachtmagen unfolds in the second of three ancient legends, revealing truths and dangers ahead for the Guardians. As Soren, Coryn, and the Band read on, they learn of a young prince in exile, an owl monk in battle claws, a queen raising an army, and the birth or death of a king under the embers in the shadow of Sacred Volcanoes.
Series reading

Sequential

Age

8-12

Length

210 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Hoole
Siv
Grank
Nyroc/Coryn
Fengo
Dunleavy MacHeath
Namara MacNamara
Otulissa
Kreeth
Phineas
Octavia
H'rath
Pleek
Soren
Gylfie
Twilight
Digger
Theo
Berwyck
The Snow Rose
Ullryck
Ygryk
Svarr
Lord Arrin
Svenka
Penryck

Discussion points

How do you think Hoole felt when he faced challenges? Can you relate to any of his feelings?
What do you think about the idea of destiny? Do you believe that everyone has a special purpose?
How did the characters in the book show bravery? Can you share a time when you had to be brave?
What lessons do you think Hoole learned throughout his journey? How about the other characters?
How important was friendship in the story? Why do you think working together was important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the book, this helps create a comfortable space for your child to express their opinions.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story, and ask what decisions they would make if they were in Hoole’s place.
Show genuine interest in their responses; ask follow-up questions to delve deeper into their thoughts and feelings.
Link discussions to real-life events or personal experiences to make the themes of the book more relatable.
Praise their insights and ideas, reinforcing their confidence and encouraging them to engage more deeply with the book’s themes.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Hoole, faces numerous challenges on his journey to become a king. Despite fears and external threats, he presses forward with bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of standing strong and courageous even when circumstances are difficult, fostering resilience in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: The importance of wise decision-making
Explanation: Hoole often consults with mentors and reflects deeply before making decisions that affect others, highlighting the significance of thoughtful consideration.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and consult others when faced with decisions, thereby enhancing their problem-solving skills and judgment.
Example Lesson: Leadership and responsibility
Explanation: As Hoole grows into his role as a leader, he learns to take responsibility for his actions and the wellbeing of his community, promoting a sense of duty and foresight.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of leadership qualities like accountability and care for others, valuable in group settings at school or in their future careers.
Example Lesson: The power of unity and teamwork
Explanation: Hoole often unites various groups to combat common threats, demonstrating how collaboration and teamwork lead to greater strength and success.
Real-World Application: Children learn the benefit of working cooperatively and valuing each team member’s contribution, which is crucial in team sports, classroom projects, and family activities.
Example Lesson: Respect for history and legacy
Explanation: The stories of ancestors and past events play a significant role in guiding Hoole's actions, teaching respect for history and its impact on current events.
Real-World Application: This imparts the importance of understanding and respecting one’s history and traditions, enhancing cultural appreciation and personal identity.

The Coming of Hoole by Kathryn Lasky