Dragon of the Red Dawn (Magic Tree House (R) Merlin Mission)
#9 of 27 in Magic Tree House (R) Merlin Mission Series
What’s inside...
In 'Dragon of the Red Dawn', part of the Magic Tree House series, Merlin the Magician has stopped eating, sleeping, or speaking to anyone in Camelot. The enchantress Morgan enlists the help of Jack and Annie from Frog Creek, Pennsylvania to solve this mystery. The siblings embark on a magical journey to Edo, Japan in the 1600s to uncover one of the four secrets of happiness. Armed with a research book and a magic wand with special rules, they explore the rich culture and traditions of ancient Japan. This adventure is part of their mission to help bring joy back to Merlin and uncover the wonders of historical Japan.
Character compass
Jack
Annie
Basho
Discussion points
How do you think Jack and Annie felt when they met the dragon? What would you do if you met a dragon?
What are some ways that Jack and Annie helped the people in the story? How can we help others around us?
Why is it important to learn about different cultures and historical events, like Jack and Annie do in their adventures?
If you could have any magical power to help people, what would it be and why?
What did you learn about courage and friendship from the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about dragons and samurai, setting the stage for the cultural elements in the book.
While discussing the book, relate the characters' adventures to your child's personal experiences to make the themes more relatable.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative scenarios or endings for the book, fostering creativity and deeper understanding of the narrative structure.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to draw or write about their favorite scene, deepening their connection and recall of the story.
Use the historical and cultural aspects of the book to spark interest in further exploration, perhaps through related books or creative projects.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: In 'Dragon of the Red Dawn,' the characters Jack and Annie embark on a mission in ancient Japan, facing dragons and samurai. Their bravery in unfamiliar situations highlights the importance of courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace new experiences at school or in social situations, understanding that courage is key to overcoming fears and achieving new goals.
Example Lesson: The value of knowledge
Explanation: Throughout the book, Jack and Annie use a book to learn about the culture and history of Japan, which helps them navigate the challenges they face. This illustrates the power and significance of knowledge.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and seek knowledge in their education, understanding that learning can help them solve problems and understand the world around them.
Example Lesson: Helping others
Explanation: The characters help residents of a village which demonstrates the importance of helping others in need. This act of kindness is a central theme in the story.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to help peers and family in their community, fostering an environment of support and kindness.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: Jack and Annie face multiple challenges during their adventure but they continue forward with perseverance. This resilience is a key message of the book.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to remain resilient in the face of their own challenges, whether they're academic, social, or personal.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: As the characters explore Japan and interact with its people, they gain a deep appreciation for the culture and customs, showcasing the value of respecting and learning from different cultures.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore and respect diverse cultures around them, promoting inclusivity and global awareness.