(GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Dec. 2009
Synopsis:
For the first time in five years, Gwyn's mother marks his birthday with a party in their Welsh farmhouse. His father is unable to celebrate, for he sees it as the anniversary of the night when Gwyn's sister, Bethan, mysteriously disappeared. A convergence of events brings about changes: Gwyn learns that he is a wizard; his grandmother gives him a collection of apparently useless but soon-to-be magical objects; and a waif of a girl joins the family for a time. Nimmo weaves elements of Welsh folklore into a story that combines magical elements with a realistic modern setting. For a somewhat younger audience than Nimmo's Charlie Bone series, the Magician Trilogy promises a child-size adventure story with likable characters that are deftly, succinctly portrayed. Offer this accessible fantasy, the first in the Magician Trilogy, to the many young readers requesting books that are "at least 100 pages" (but preferably not much more).
| Discussion topics: |
| • |
Pronunciation guide for names
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| Craft ideas: |
| • |
Sketch part of story (Spider)
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| • |
Draw a family "web" of the characters in the book in. (See example on back of sheet)
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*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions.
You can use them, but you don't have to use them.
You can expand upon them, or add your own twist.
Remember, though, that the focus of your time should
not be on the development and execution of a craft;
the focus should be on the read-aloud and the
enjoyment of the book!
