Hilda and the Mountain King
#6 in Hilda Series
on Goodreads (1,938)
What’s inside...
See what perils await our beloved blue-haired adventurer in the sixth book of Luke Pearson’s widely praised series. We rejoin our heroine for her latest adventure just as she awakes to find herself ... in the body of a troll! Her mother is worried sick, and is perplexed by the strange creature that seems to have taken Hilda’s place. Now, both of them are in a race to be reunited before Ahlberg and his safety patrol get the chance to use their new secret weapon to lay waste to the trolls, and Hilda along with them!
Discussion points
How did Hilda's bravery help her in her adventure with the Mountain King?
What do you think the trolls represent in the story? Can you think of a time when you faced something unknown like Hilda?
How do the different characters in the book show friendship and support to each other?
What would you do if you were in Hilda’s place during her encounters in the mountain?
How does the setting of the mountain affect the story? Can you describe what you imagine it to be like?
Tip: Role play these questions
While reading, pause at intense moments to ask your child how they feel about the decisions Hilda makes.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between Hilda’s adventures and their own personal experiences, promoting empathy and deeper understanding.
Discuss the illustrations and how they contribute to the story. Ask your child to point out their favorite ones and explain why they like them.
Encourage your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the story to keep them engaged and thinking critically.
After finishing the book, have your child summarize the story in their own words, reinforcing their understanding and recall abilities.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and facing fears
Explanation: In 'Hilda and the Mountain King,' Hilda faces her fears as she navigates an unfamiliar world, demonstrating bravery beyond her years.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their own fears and challenges, whether it's trying new activities or standing up in class. This reassures them that bravery is within them all along.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Throughout the story, Hilda shows empathy by attempting to understand the perspectives of the various creatures she encounters.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to consider the feelings of others around them, promoting a more empathetic viewpoint towards friends and family members who might be different from them.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Hilda creatively tackles obstacles and puzzles throughout her adventures, using her wits and resources at hand.
Real-World Application: This illustrates to kids the importance of thinking critically and problem-solving in daily situations, enhancing their ability to navigate and resolve issues.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and resilience
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Hilda perseveres to find solutions and adapts to new environments, showing resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence through difficulties in schoolwork or personal goals, reinforcing that perseverance is key to overcoming adverse situations.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and collaboration
Explanation: Hilda often relies on the help of her friends to overcome challenges, showing the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the significance of cooperation and seeking help when needed, fostering a spirit of community and shared effort in group tasks or family duties.