Vespertine
Vespertine Series
on Goodreads (23,674)
What’s inside...
Artemisia is training to be a Gray Sister, a nun who cleanses the bodies of the deceased so that their souls can pass on, otherwise they become ravenous spirits. When her convent is attacked, she awakens an ancient spirit bound to a relic, a revenant with malevolent potential. As death looms over Loraille, Artemisia must become a vespertine, a warrior priestess, to stop it. However, knowledge of vespertines is lost. She seeks help from the revenant, uncovering dark secrets and magic. As she grows closer to the revenant, a hidden evil emerges, challenging her beliefs and risking betrayal.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
13-14
Length
400 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Artemisia's role as a nun influences her actions and decisions throughout the story?
What are your thoughts on the way friendships are depicted in the book? Can you relate to any of the friendships?
How does the theme of courage manifest in 'Vespertine'? Can you share a time when you had to be brave?
What lessons can we learn from the relationship between Artemisia and the revenant?
How do the historical and fantastical elements of the story enhance your understanding or enjoyment of the narrative?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions to allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, rather than questions with yes or no answers.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the challenges faced by the characters and their own experiences.
Discuss the setting of the book and how it contributes to the mood and characters’ actions; this can help deepen your child’s comprehension.
Highlight key moments of character development or moral decisions and ask your child what they would do in similar situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Artemisia, faces numerous challenges and threats from spirits but remains determined to protect her world. Despite her fears, she confronts these adversities bravely.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of standing up for what is right, even when they are scared. This can translate into everyday bravery, like defending a friend or trying something new.
Example Lesson: The significance of understanding and empathy
Explanation: Artemisia learns to communicate and understand the spirits instead of fearing them outright, which teaches her more about their motives and history.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate the importance of looking beyond surface appearances and understanding others’ perspectives before making judgements.
Example Lesson: The value of self-discovery and personal growth
Explanation: Throughout her journey, Artemisia discovers more about her own abilities and her past, which is crucial in her development and self-confidence.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore their own talents and interests, helping them build their self-esteem and fostering an understanding of their own unique identities.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Artemisia learns that she needs the help of others to succeed, demonstrating that collaboration is often necessary to overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Teaches children that working together with others, whether in school projects or family activities, can lead to greater success than working alone.