Willa of the Wood
#1 in Willa of the Wood Series
on Goodreads (7,118)
What’s inside...
Move without a sound. Steal without a trace.
Willa, a young night-spirit, is her clan's best thief. She creeps into the cabins of the day-folk under cover of darkness and takes what they won't miss. It's dangerous work--the day-folk kill whatever they don't understand--but Willa will do anything to win the approval of the padaran, the charismatic leader of the Faeran people.
When Willa's curiosity leaves her hurt and stranded in the day-folk world, she calls upon the old powers of her beloved grandmother, and the unbreakable bonds of her forest allies, to escape. Only then does she begin to discover the shocking truth: that not all of her day-folk enemies are the same, and that the foundations of her own Faeran society are crumbling. What do you do when you realize that the society you were born and raised in is rife with evil? Do you raise your voice? Do you stand up against it?
As forces of unfathomable destruction encroach on her forest home, Willa must decide who she truly is, facing deadly force with the warmest compassion, sinister corruption with trusted alliance, and finding a home for her longing heart.
Why read this book
- Thrilling adventure fosters imagination and curiosity.
- Willa's resilience highlights bravery and problem-solving skills.
- Rich, descriptive language enhances vocabulary development.
- Inspires connection with nature and empathy for creatures.
Character compass
Willa
Nathaniel
Padaran
Discussion points
How do you think Willa feels being different from her clan and how would you feel in her place?
Willa cares deeply about her forest home; what are some ways you can help take care of our environment?
What did you learn about trust and betrayal from Willa’s interactions with the ‘day-folk’?
If you were Willa, would you have made the same decisions she did at crucial points in the story? Why or why not?
How does Willa's relationship with her surroundings influence her actions and beliefs throughout the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Highlight themes of courage and resilience found in the story to help your child connect with Willa's challenges and her growth throughout the book.
Discuss the importance of environmental conservation as depicted in the book, relating it to real world situations and what actions your family can take.
Encourage your child to express what they might have done differently if faced with Willa's dilemmas, fostering critical thinking.
Point out the ways characters in the book change their opinions or learn to trust. This can open up discussions about empathy and understanding different viewpoints.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Willa demonstrates resilience as she navigates through complex challenges in the forest and confronts the changing world around her.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persisting through difficulties and adapting to new situations, fostering a mindset that can help them overcome obstacles in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and cultural heritage
Explanation: The story emphasizes the value of the natural world and the preservation of Willa’s cultural roots as she deeply connects with her environment and history.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and protect the natural environment and gain interest in their own cultural backgrounds and those of others.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: Willa shows compassion to a variety of characters, understanding their perspectives and sharing in their emotions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize different emotions and perspectives, fostering a sense of empathy and improving their interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Importance of courage and integrity
Explanation: Throughout her journey, Willa often chooses to do what is right, despite the risks and personal costs, demonstrating integrity.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of standing up for their beliefs and acting with honesty, even when it is difficult.
Example Lesson: Value of curiosity and learning
Explanation: Willa’s journey is fueled by her curiosity about the world around her and her quest for knowledge.
Real-World Application: By fostering curiosity, children can be encouraged to explore, ask questions, and engage in lifelong learning.