Fiddlesticks and Firestones
#2 in Spilling the Magic Series
on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
Sequel to Spilling the Magic, this story is set in the magical world of Murn. Billy and Mary are dismayed when Drippy Wendy comes to stay with them. However, their perspective changes when a magical Firestone appears on their doorstep, thrusting them into an adventure in Murn, which is facing grave danger. The trio must race against time to prevent the evil seaworm, Kacasath, from poisoning Murn forever. They need to find the mythical Lynth to stop it, and Billy and Mary realize they need all the help they can get, including Wendy's.
Discussion points
What do you think Fiddlesticks felt when he discovered the Firestones?
How would you solve a problem like the one Fiddlesticks faced?
Can you think of a time when you had to be brave like Fiddlesticks?
What do you think is the most important lesson Fiddlesticks learned?
How would the story change if you were in the place of Fiddlesticks?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think the book might be about based on the title. This sparks curiosity and sets a purpose for reading.
Pause at climactic moments in the story and ask your child to predict what might happen next. This enhances their analytical thinking skills.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a scene from the book. Discuss why they chose that particular scene and what it means to them.
Relate the problems or situations in the book to real-life scenarios your child might face to help them connect with the story on a personal level.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, characters Fiddlesticks and Firestones must collaborate to solve the puzzles they encounter, demonstrating that working together can achieve greater outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to cooperate with others, whether it's during school projects or playing sports, emphasizing that collective effort often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Valuing differences
Explanation: Fiddlesticks and Firestones have very different personalities and skills, but they learn to appreciate each other's unique traits, which helps them on their adventure.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate the diverse abilities and perspectives of people around them, promoting inclusivity and respect in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of challenges
Explanation: The characters encounter numerous challenges throughout their journey, but they persist and never give up, showing the value of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by not giving up easily when faced with difficulties in homework, learning new skills, or dealing with personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Creative problem solving
Explanation: Fiddlesticks and Firestones often use creative and unconventional methods to overcome obstacles, highlighting the importance of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively in solving problems, whether it’s figuring out a tricky puzzle or coming up with a creative project idea.
Example Lesson: The joy of adventure
Explanation: The excitement and joy experienced by the characters during their quest convey the message that exploring new things can be rewarding and fun.
Real-World Application: This lesson can motivate children to be curious and explore new topics, hobbies, or activities, fostering a lifelong love for learning and discovery.