Wings of Ebony
#1 of 2 in Wings of Ebony Series
on Goodreads (5,373)
What’s inside...
“Make a way out of no way” is just the way of life for Rue. But when her mother is shot dead on her doorstep, life for her and her younger sister changes forever. Rue's taken from her neighborhood by the father she never knew, forced to leave her little sister behind, and whisked away to Ghizon—a hidden island of magic wielders. Rue is the only half-god, half-human there, where leaders protect their magical powers at all costs and thrive on human suffering. Miserable and desperate to see her sister on the anniversary of their mother’s death, Rue breaks Ghizon’s sacred Do Not Leave Law and returns to Houston, only to discover that Black kids are being forced into crime and violence. And her sister, Tasha, is in danger of falling sway to the very forces that claimed their mother’s life. Worse still, evidence mounts that the evil plaguing East Row is the same one that lurks in Ghizon—an evil that will stop at nothing until it has stolen everything from her and everyone she loves. Rue must embrace her true identity and wield the full magnitude of her ancestors’ power to save her neighborhood before the gods burn it to the ground.
Character compass
Rue
Tasha
Discussion points
How do you think Rue's life changed when she discovered her powers, and how would you feel in her situation?
Rue fights for justice in her community. Can you think of a time when you stood up for something you believed in?
The theme of belonging is central in Wings of Ebony. Where do you feel you most belong and why?
Rue experiences different cultures in the book. How do you think that impacts her view of the world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate Rue's experiences to their own life, fostering a deeper personal connection to the story.
Discuss the moral decisions Rue makes throughout the book and ask your child what they would do in similar situations.
Explore the themes of community and resilience with your child, asking them to point out examples in the book and in their own experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The Power of Resilience
Explanation: In 'Wings of Ebony', the protagonist Rue demonstrates resilience through her determination and perseverance, facing numerous challenges to protect her community.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face adversities with courage and continue to strive for their goals despite difficulties, mirroring Rue’s resilience in their personal challenges.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Community
Explanation: Throughout 'Wings of Ebony', Rue emphasizes the value of her community, drawing strength and support from those around her to combat external threats.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the significance of belonging to a community, learning to cooperate with others and value collective well-being over individual success.
Example Lesson: Understanding Equality
Explanation: Rue confronts racial injustices and inequality, advocating for fairness and the recognition of everyone's innate worth irrespective of their background.
Real-World Application: This imparts a profound lesson on fairness and treating everyone with respect and dignity, encouraging children to foster inclusivity and stand against prejudice in their surroundings.
Example Lesson: Embracing Identity
Explanation: The protagonist's journey also centers around embracing her heritage and identity, even when it’s under scrutiny or deemed as different.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of accepting themselves and others, promoting self-confidence and appreciation for diversity in their communities.