A True Spell and a Dangerous (Cambridge Reading)
Cambridge reading Series
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
Cambridge Reading is a comprehensive reading program designed to provide engaging books and support materials to aid in teaching reading and developing literacy during the primary school years. The story follows a character named Ruth who discovers an old picture book. Ignoring the warnings, she follows the instructions in the book to mix up a magic oil that will help her see into the 'Land Beyond'.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-11
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the characters to act the way they did?
How would you have reacted if you were in the same situation as the main character?
What do you think the 'True Spell' represents in the story?
Can you think of a time when you faced a dangerous or challenging situation? What did you learn from it?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in today's world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story’s setting, asking how they might feel or act differently.
Discuss the moral implications of the characters' decisions to enhance ethical thinking.
Use real-life examples to relate the book’s themes to situations your child might encounter.
Draw parallels between the book and other stories or movies with similar themes to deepen understanding.
Ask open-ended questions that require more than a yes or no response to encourage critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In the story, the protagonist learns the value of being truthful even when faced with difficult situations.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding that honesty builds trust and strong relationships in real life.
Example Lesson: The consequences of actions
Explanation: The narrative shows how each character's decisions lead to specific outcomes, teaching children that their actions have impacts.
Real-World Application: Kids can relate this to everyday decisions, learning to think about the potential consequences before acting.
Example Lesson: The power of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters overcome obstacles by supporting each other, highlighting the strength found in friendships.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and nurture their friendships, understanding how cooperation and support can help solve problems.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: The protagonist confronts frightening situations, demonstrating bravery and growth.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their own fears and understand that overcoming challenges is part of growing up.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The characters show persistence in the face of challenges, teaching resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist through their own challenges, embracing resilience as a key to overcoming difficulties.