Deer in Danger (2)
#2 of 4 in Woodland Magic Series
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
The second story in an illustrated magical adventure series from the bestselling author of the Unicorn Academy, brimming with drama and an environmental theme. The Keepers are a secretive tribe of little people who live in the middle of Whispering Woods, caring for the countryside and rewilding it when humans (or Ruffins as they know them) are careless with it. Young Keepers Cora and Jax are trainees who need to prove themselves or risk being sent back to school. Intent on their task of building a hedgehog highway by making holes at the bottom of fences on a new housing estate, they come upon a deer trapped in the foundations of a building site. Their woodland magic isn't strong enough to help the deer escape, but they will not be able to complete their task if they try to get help for the deer. A brilliant new magical series perfect for 6-8 year olds combining animal rescue, nature conservation and adventure.
Discussion points
How do you think the deer felt when they were in danger? Can you describe their emotions?
What would you have done if you were in the deer's place? Would you have reacted differently?
Why is it important to help animals in danger? How can we help them in our own community?
How did the characters in the book work together to solve the problem? What does this teach us about teamwork?
What did you learn about the natural habitat of deer and the challenges they face?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to put themselves in the deer’s position and imagine their feelings and reactions.
Discuss the importance of wildlife conservation and how it impacts our environment. Link these discussions to the story’s context to make it more relatable.
Highlight the teamwork aspect by discussing how characters in the book collaborated. Relate it to everyday situations like family teamwork at home or cooperating with friends.
Use the book’s illustrations to engage younger readers visually, pointing out details that might enrich the storytelling and lead to deeper understanding of the narrative.
After reading, consider visiting a local wildlife reserve or park to give real-world context to the book’s themes, enhancing the learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Deer in Danger,' children witness the protagonist taking on the role of protecting a hurt deer. This illustrates the importance of taking action and caring for others.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by taking care of their pets or helping their parents with chores at home, learning that they have the ability to make positive changes through responsible actions.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Through the story's sensitive depiction of the deer's plight, children learn to understand and share the feelings of another being.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be considerate and understanding towards their friends and family, fostering stronger relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The characters in the book face challenges in helping the deer, demonstrating bravery and determination.
Real-World Application: Children can mirror this bravery in their own lives, whether it's standing up for a friend or trying something new despite feeling nervous.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The book highlights how characters work together to save the deer, showcasing the power of collaborative effort.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to participate in group activities and appreciate how teamwork can achieve goals that might be hard to accomplish alone.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of wildlife conservation and treating animals with kindness.
Real-World Application: This can lead to children becoming more environmentally conscious, participating in recycling, or learning more about animals and their habitats.