Doppol - Trending books for kids

illustrations by
4.27
on Goodreads (4,126)

What’s inside...

The fifth book in The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place series, The Unmapped Sea follows the adventures of Miss Penelope Lumley and her three charges, the Incorrigible children. The story takes them to Brighton, where they encounter new mysteries and challenges. For fans of Lemony Snicket's Series of Unfortunate Events and Trenton Lee Stewart's Mysterious Benedict Society, here comes the fifth book in the Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place, the acclaimed and hilarious Victorian mystery series by Maryrose Wood. Found running wild in the forest of Ashton Place, the Incorrigibles are no ordinary children: Alexander, age ten or thereabouts, keeps his siblings in line with gentle nips; Cassiopeia, perhaps four or five, has a bark that is (usually) worse than her bite; and Beowulf, age somewhere-in-the-middle, is alarmingly adept at chasing squirrels. Luckily, Miss Penelope Lumley is no ordinary governess. Only fifteen years old and a recent graduate of the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females, Penelope embraces the challenge of her new position. Though she is eager to instruct the children in Latin verbs and the proper use of globes, first she must help them overcome their canine tendencies. But mysteries abound at Ashton Place: Who are these three wild creatures, and how did they come to live in the vast forests of the estate? Why does Old Timothy, the coachman, lurk around every corner? Will Penelope be able to teach the Incorrigibles table manners and socially useful phrases in time for Lady Constance's holiday ball? And what on earth is a schottische?
In series
Series reading

Sequential

Age

8-12

Length

416 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Miss Penelope Lumley
Lady Constance Ashton
Cassiopeia Incorrigible
Lord Frederick Ashton
Beowulf Incorrigible
Alexander Incorrigible
Admiral Faucet

Discussion points

What do you think was the most challenging adventure for the Incorrigibles in 'The Unmapped Sea'? How would you have dealt with it?
How do the characters in the book show courage and teamwork? Can you share a time when you had to be brave or work with others to solve a problem?
What lessons do you think the Incorrigibles learned during their journey? What did you learn from their experiences?
If you could talk to any character from 'The Unmapped Sea', who would it be and what would you ask them?
How does the setting of the story influence the events? Can you imagine this story taking place somewhere else?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine alternative scenarios within the story, asking how they might change the outcome.
Connect discussions to real-life events or personal experiences to make the themes of the book more relatable.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book or to act out their favorite part to deepen their connection to the story.
Create a family book club discussion, bringing everyone together to talk about the book and share different perspectives.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity and exploration
Explanation: In 'The Unmapped Sea,' the characters embark on adventurous journeys, constantly seeking knowledge and understanding of the unknown.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions, explore new activities, and learn about the world around them.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters must work together to overcome challenges, demonstrating the benefits of collaboration and supporting one another.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of working with others to achieve common goals, whether in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Adaptability in changing circumstances
Explanation: As the characters navigate the unmapped sea, they face unexpected situations that require them to adapt and think creatively.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that being flexible and open to change is crucial in dealing with new or challenging situations in life.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters encounter various obstacles during their voyage, but their determination and resilience help them to persevere.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to stay determined and not be easily discouraged by difficulties, promoting persistence and grit.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity and different cultures
Explanation: The journey introduces characters to new lands and cultures, highlighting the importance of respect and understanding for diversity.
Real-World Application: Prepares children to embrace and appreciate diverse cultures and perspectives, enhancing social harmony and personal growth.