A Reaper at the Gates
#3 of 4 in An Ember in the Ashes Series
on Goodreads (106,673)
What’s inside...
In the third installment of the Ember Quartet, the specter of war looms as the Blood Shrike, Helene Aquilla, faces untold threats on all sides. The Soul Catcher, Elias Veturius, must relinquish his humanity to lead the spirits of the dead. The threat of the Nightbringer grows ever stronger as he aims to break the chains of the ancient beings and wage havoc on the world. Laia of Serra must rise to challenge the empire and harness her newfound power to stop him. In this epic fantasy, alliances shift, loyalties are tested, and the fates of the Empire and the world hang in the balance.
Discussion points
How do the choices made by the characters in 'A Reaper at the Gates' show their values and beliefs? Can you think of a time when you had to make a choice that reflected your values?
The book discusses themes of duty and power. What do you think it means to have power, and what responsibilities come with it?
Each character in the book faces significant challenges. Which character’s journey did you find most compelling, and why?
How do you think hope plays a role in the story? Can you share a personal experience where hope helped you overcome a difficult situation?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin discussions with open-ended questions to foster critical thinking. Encourage your child to relate the challenges and themes from the book to their own life experiences, enhancing personal connections to the story. Highlight the importance of understanding and discussing different characters’ perspectives to develop empathy and broader worldviews.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters in 'A Reaper at the Gates' consistently face challenging situations. The protagonist demonstrates perseverance and dogged determination to protect loved ones and achieve personal goals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of not giving up in difficult times, whether it's working through a tough homework assignment or resolving conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: The importance of moral choices
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, characters need to make difficult decisions that test their values and ethics. These moments highlight the complexity and importance of making morally sound choices.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that their actions have consequences and that making the right choice, even when it's hard, is crucial in life.
Example Lesson: Leadership and responsibility
Explanation: The book showcases various characters stepping forward to lead or make decisions that impact others. This underlines the themes of leadership and the weight of responsibility.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking initiative in group settings at school or within the family, learning to embrace and manage responsibilities more effectively.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: Characters in the story often display understanding and compassion towards others' feelings and circumstances, which strengthens their relationships.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of empathy in friendship and the importance of supporting others during challenging times, promoting a more harmonious social environment.