Descendants: Mal's Spell Book
Descendants Series
on Goodreads (1,594)
What’s inside...
This spell book, which formerly belonged to Maleficent before she passed it on to Mal, is full of comments, notes, and inside jokes between Mal and the other villains' kids. Follow along with Mal, Evie, Jay, and Carlos as they find their way in the world of Auradon Prep. The spell book was once owned by Maleficent and was meant to help destroy Auradon but Mal and her friends used it to do things their way. It remains to be seen if the apple falls far from the tree.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
192 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Mal learned about friendship and trust throughout the story?
How did Mal's view on using magic change from the beginning to the end of the book?
If you were in Mal's situation, would you have made the same choices? Why or why not?
What are your thoughts on how Mal handles challenges? Can you relate to her actions?
If you could create a spell like Mal, what would it do and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on Mal's decisions and the consequences. This helps them develop empathy and moral reasoning.
Ask follow-up questions that relate the book's scenarios to your child’s experiences, enhancing personal connection.
Discuss the implications of using power or 'magic' for personal gain versus for the benefit of others, fostering a sense of responsibility.
Create a supportive environment where your child feels comfortable discussing both positive and negative emotions depicted in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility for Actions
Explanation: Throughout 'Descendants: Mal’s Spell Book,' Mal learns to acknowledge her actions and take responsibility for them, even when they involve magical mishaps.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of owning up to their mistakes and being accountable, a vital skill in personal development and relationships.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: The characters in the book, despite their differing backgrounds, show how to work together and support one another, demonstrating the strength of true friendship.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate diverse friendships and support their friends in various situations, promoting social harmony and understanding.
Example Lesson: Importance of Choices
Explanation: Mal faces several choices that test her character and morals. The story portrays how her decisions impact her life, emphasizing the significance of making thoughtful choices.
Real-World Application: Children learn that their choices define their paths, teaching them to think critically about consequences and ethical dilemmas.
Example Lesson: Creative Problem Solving
Explanation: The book showcases characters using their unique abilities and wit to solve problems, encouraging innovative thinking.
Real-World Application: This lesson inspires children to approach challenges creatively and recognize that there are multiple solutions to a problem.
Example Lesson: Courage to Change
Explanation: Mal's journey in the book highlights her courage to change for the better, standing up against wrongdoing.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace positive change and have the bravery to stand up for what is right in their own lives.