Wildwood Imperium
#3 of 2 in The Wildwood Chronicles Series
What’s inside...
Wildwood Imperium is the third book in the Wildwood Chronicles series by Colin Meloy. The story continues with Prue and Curtis further exploring the Impassable Wilderness, a dense maze in Portland, Oregon. They face new challenges and uncover secrets about the Wildwood's past and their own. As the fate of Wildwood hangs in the balance, Prue and Curtis must make difficult decisions and alliances to save their beloved wilderness. The book is a collaboration between Colin Meloy, lead singer of the Decemberists, and Carson Ellis, acclaimed illustrator.
Discussion points
How do you think Prue felt when she was on her quest in the Wildwood? What would you do in her place?
What did you learn about the different communities living in Wildwood? How do they compare to our community?
The characters in the book often had to make tough decisions. Can you think of a tough decision you had to make? What helped you decide?
How did the characters' relationships change throughout the story? Why do you think those changes happened?
If you could have any power from one of the characters in 'Wildwood Imperium', which would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage exploration of feelings by linking experiences of characters in the book to the child’s own experiences.
Compare and contrast aspects of the book with real life to foster deeper understanding and relate the storyline to personal experiences.
Ask open-ended questions that stimulate critical thinking and personal reflection, which supports cognitive and emotional development.
Discuss the decision-making processes of characters and relate them to everyday decisions that your child makes, improving their analytical skills.
Highlight the developments and changes in relationships in the story to teach lessons about empathy and perspective-taking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and resilience
Explanation: In 'Wildwood Imperium,' the characters face numerous challenges and adversities that they must overcome. Their courage in facing these obstacles head-on is a central theme.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace challenges in their own lives, understanding that courage and resilience can lead to overcoming difficulties and achieving goals.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters form alliances and friendships that help them navigate complex situations. The story emphasizes how working together can accomplish more than working alone.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of collaboration and supporting each other, skills that are valuable in school projects and other social interactions.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and the environment
Explanation: The setting of 'Wildwood Imperium' is richly described and plays a crucial role in the story. The characters learn to interact with their environment in a way that respects and preserves its beauty.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be mindful of the environment around them and to practice sustainability in their daily habits.
Example Lesson: The consequences of choices
Explanation: Several characters in 'Wildwood Imperium' face significant moral dilemmas. The book explores how each decision can lead to different outcomes, highlighting the importance of thoughtful decision-making.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that their choices have impacts and that thinking critically before making decisions is important.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding diverse perspectives
Explanation: The diverse cast of characters in the book showcases a range of backgrounds and perspectives, facilitating moments of empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to appreciate diversity and foster an inclusive attitude towards others in their community.