Winter Damage
on Goodreads (124)
What’s inside...
On a frozen Cornish moor, a fifteen-year-old girl named Ennor lives in a trailer with her dad and little brother. Her mother left years ago as their life started to fall apart. With her father now gravely ill and the threat of her brother being taken away looming, Ennor sets off on a journey three days before Christmas to find her mother and bring her home. Armed with a blanket, a map, a saucepan, and a gun, she faces a life-changing adventure that turns into a battle for survival. Rather than just finding her mother, Ennor's journey becomes a poignant tale of love, friendship, and discovering something even more valuable.
Age
12-15
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ennor
Discussion points
How do you think Ennor felt when she set out on her journey? What would you feel in her situation?
The setting of the book is very cold and harsh; how do you think this affects the characters?
Ennor faces many challenges in the story. Can you think of a time when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it?
Friendship and loyalty are important themes in 'Winter Damage.' What does friendship mean to you?
What do you think the title 'Winter Damage' symbolizes in the story? How does it relate to the events or characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the characters’ shoes, fostering empathy and deeper understanding.
Discuss the importance of the setting and how it influences the mood and decisions of the characters.
Use examples of resilience and bravery from the book to relate to personal challenges faced by your child, enhancing their connection to the story.
Strengthen your bond through shared readings and discuss personal experiences related to friendship and loyalty depicted in the book.
Explore the symbolism in the title and throughout the book to enhance critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: In 'Winter Damage', the protagonist, Ennor, faces harsh winter conditions and personal challenges. Her determination to find her missing mother amid these difficulties showcases her resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain determined and optimistic, even when facing challenging situations, whether it's tackling a difficult subject in school or resolving conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: Value of family
Explanation: Throughout the novel, the importance of family is central as Ennor braves a treacherous journey to reunite with her mother. This emphasizes the significance of family bonds and support.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate and seek support from their family members during tough times, fostering a nurturing home environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship
Explanation: Ennor's interactions with her makeshift family of friends during her journey highlight the importance of camaraderie and trust. These relationships play a crucial role in helping her overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of building and maintaining friendships. It teaches them teamwork and shows how cooperation can aid in overcoming difficulties.
Example Lesson: Caring for the environment
Explanation: The stark winter landscapes in the book serve as a backdrop for the narrative, subtly hinting at the impacts of climate change and the importance of environmental preservation.
Real-World Application: Children are prompted to recognize the importance of environmental care and are encouraged to participate in environmentally friendly practices like recycling and conserving energy.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: Ennor's journey is filled with unknowns and risks, yet she shows immense courage in pursuing her goals, which drives the narrative forward.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face new challenges with bravery, whether it's moving to a new city, attending a new school, or trying out new activities.