Earwig and the Witch
not part of a series
What’s inside...
In this captivating middle-grade novel by Diana Wynne Jones, a fearless orphan named Earwig is taken in by two mysterious foster parents from a magical house filled with invisible rooms, potions, and spell books. Unlike most children, Earwig isn't scared. Instead, she uses her cleverness and some help from a talking cat to take control and learn magic herself. The book is beautifully illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Paul O. Zelinsky and celebrates Earwig's adventurous spirit in a world of enchantment. Neil Gaiman, a Newbery Medalist and best-selling author, declared Diana Wynne Jones an international treasure. Throughout the novel, Earwig, who enjoys her life at St. Morwald's Home for Children, is taken to a house filled with dark magic by her foster parents. Not fazed, she adapts and aims to learn magic, showcasing her fearless and clever nature.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Earwig wants to learn magic so badly? How does it make her feel?
How does Earwig change when she starts living with the Witch and the Mandrake? What do you think about these changes?
What makes someone a family? How does Earwig's view on family evolve throughout the story?
Why do you think the Witch and the Mandrake keep so many secrets? How would you feel if you were Earwig?
What lesson do you think Earwig learned by the end of the book? What lesson did you learn?
Tip: Role play these questions
To deepen your child's understanding and enjoyment of 'Earwig and the Witch,' use the discussions as an opportunity to explore Earwig's adventurous spirit and tenacity. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the characters and the storyline. Validate their responses to create a safe space for conversation. Ask follow-up questions based on their comments and tie discussions back to real-life scenarios to make the themes of the book more relatable. Highlight the importance of perseverance and curiosity, core themes in the book, and connect these traits to personal growth and learning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The protagonist, Earwig, is taken from the orphanage she knows and loves to a new, mysterious environment. She learns to adapt by understanding and manipulating the magical rules of her new home.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that being flexible and adaptable is essential when faced with new situations or environments, whether it's a new school, home, or set of friends.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness
Explanation: Earwig uses her intelligence and creativity to deal with the witch, Bella Yaga, and the magical environment she is thrust into. Rather than being overwhelmed, she learns to use the resources available to her advantage.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of using their creativity and intellect to solve problems and make the best of what they have at their disposal.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Despite her initial fears, Earwig stands up to the challenges posed by the supernatural elements in the house. Her bravery in confronting Bella Yaga and even the Mandrake demonstrates her growth and courage.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of facing fears and the value of courage in overcoming obstacles in daily life.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendships
Explanation: Throughout the novel, Earwig forms strategic alliances and friendships, particularly with Thomas, the talking cat. These relationships are pivotal in her navigation and eventual mastery of her new, challenging world.
Real-World Application: The story underlines the importance of building and maintaining friendships, as these relationships can provide support and aid in overcoming life's challenges.