Clockwork
What’s inside...
Fritz, the writer, spins a spine-tingling tale to cheer up Karl, the apprentice clockmaker. But rather than helping matters, the story begins to come true. The stories of Karl, the apprentice; Dr. Kalmenius, his nefarious 'savior'; Gretl, the brave daughter of the town innkeeper; and a young prince whose clockwork heart is in danger of winding down come together in surprising and magical ways in a story that has the relentless urgency of a ticking clock. Borrowing elements of Frankenstein, Pinocchio, and Faust, the popular author of The Golden Compass and The Subtle Knife creates a suspenseful fantasy tale about an apprentice clockmaker who sells his soul.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think about the decisions Karl made in the story? How would you have acted in his situation?
How do you feel about Fritz’s storytelling? What do you think happened in the town as a result?
Why do you think the author chose a clock as a significant element in the story? What does it symbolize?
What lessons do you think we can learn from Dr. Kalmenius and his creations?
How do the themes of responsibility and consequences appear throughout the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the world of 'Clockwork'. Ask them to think about how the characters' decisions affect their outcomes. Discuss the importance of making thoughtful choices. Draw parallels between the mechanical workings of a clock and the storyline, highlighting cause and effect. Most importantly, use the story as a springboard to talk about personal responsibility and the impact of our actions on others.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and determination
Explanation: In 'Clockwork', characters like Fritz and Gretl exemplify courage and determination by facing their fears and tackling challenges head-on, promoting a narrative of bravery.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing challenges in their academics or social interactions, building resilience and self-confidence.
Example Lesson: The consequences of one's actions
Explanation: The story illustrates that every decision has consequences, as seen when Sir Ironsoul, a clockwork figure, reacts based on the actions of others around him, teaching accountability.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think about the outcomes of their actions and to act responsibly, whether it's in dealing with friends or making decisions at school.
Example Lesson: The value of creativity and imagination
Explanation: Fritz, a writer in the story, uses his creativity to craft tales, portraying how imagination can breathe life into art and solve problems.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to value and harness their creativity, which can aid in problem-solving and expressing themselves through art, writing, or play.
Example Lesson: Working together solves problems
Explanation: Characters in 'Clockwork' often team up to deal with challenges, showcasing the power of collaboration and mutual support.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of teamwork in achieving common goals, be it during group projects or in team sports.
Example Lesson: Understanding the balance between good and evil
Explanation: The narrative contrasts positive and negative traits of characters, helping readers discern moral complexities and the grey areas in human nature.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop a nuanced understanding of right and wrong and encourage empathy and ethical thinking in their interactions.