#2 in The School for Good and Evil Series
A World Without Princes
2014 by
on Goodreads (56,469)
What’s inside...
In the sequel to the New York Times bestselling The School for Good and Evil, Sophie and Agatha are home, living out their Ever After. But life isn’t quite the fairy tale they expected. When Agatha secretly wishes she’d chosen a different happy ending, she reopens the gates to the School for Good and Evil. But the world she and Sophie once knew has changed. Witches and princesses, warlocks and princes are no longer enemies. New bonds are forming; old bonds are being shattered. But underneath this uneasy arrangement, a war is brewing and a dangerous enemy rises.
Why read this book
- Explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and equality.
- Encourages critical thinking and reevaluation of stereotypes.
- Vibrant storytelling captivates and engages young readers.
- Supports development of empathy and moral reasoning.
The Big Picture
- Promotes equality and understanding differences.
- Encourages critical thinking and moral reasoning.
- Ideal for discussions on respect and conflict resolution.
- Addresses the repercussions of stereotyping.
Diversity & Representation
- Explores themes of gender roles and identity.
- Promotes understanding and respect among diverse characters.
- Challenges traditional narratives, encouraging inclusive perspectives.
Book in series
#2
Age
9-13
Length
448 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
How do you think Sophie and Agatha's friendship changed throughout the story, and why do you think those changes happened?
What would you do if you were in a world where roles were reversed, like in the School for Girls and the School for Boys?
Why do you think the characters struggled with the concept of good and evil being not so clearly defined?
How do the choices made by the characters impact their relationships with others in the story?
If you were to create a world without princes, what would it look like and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with friendships to those of Sophie and Agatha, helping them connect personally with the story.
Discuss the consequences of decisions made by characters to give your child insight into cause and effect.
Explore the theme of identity and roles in society by asking your child how they perceive these roles in their own world.
Use examples from the book to discuss the gray areas of morality and ethics, encouraging your child to express their own views on what is 'good' and 'evil'.
Prompt your child to think creatively by asking them to imagine their own alternative story endings or different magical schools.
What parents love
Perfect blend of mystery and morals.
Keeps my child engaged and thinking.
Great for discussions on fairness and choices.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of understanding perspectives
Explanation: In 'A World Without Princes,' characters experience a world changed by dramatic shifts in gender roles, forcing them to see things from perspectives other than their own.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of empathy and considering different viewpoints in resolving conflicts and building stronger relationships.
Example Lesson: The consequences of rigid stereotypes
Explanation: The story explores the impact of strict gender roles on society and individuals, highlighting the limitations they impose.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to challenge stereotypes and appreciate individual strengths and differences, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Adaptability in the face of change
Explanation: As the characters navigate a significantly altered world, they learn to adapt to new situations and overcome challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of flexibility and resilience, crucial skills in navigating life’s unpredictable changes.
Example Lesson: The power of unity and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters learn that working together, despite differences, can lead to stronger outcomes and solutions.
Real-World Application: This lesson underlines the importance of teamwork and cooperation in achieving common goals, both in school projects and in family activities.
Example Lesson: Reevaluating right and wrong
Explanation: Characters are placed in complex moral dilemmas, prompting them to question what is truly right or wrong.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to think critically about ethics and morality, fostering a deeper understanding of personal and societal values.