Jane and the Magician
#1 in Jane and the Dragon Series
on Goodreads (53)
What’s inside...
A feisty heroine who’d rather joust than sew seeks out her own adventures in these magical fairy tales for today’s young readers. The king is giving a party to cheer up the prince, so he sends Jane and her friend the dragon to find his missing magician. But what they find is a problem — a very wet and watery problem. Will the prince’s party be a washout? Or can Jane find a magical solution?
Discussion points
How do you think Jane felt when she met the magician? Can you think of a time when you met someone new?
What is the most important thing Jane learned from her adventure? Why do you think that lesson is important?
If you could have the magician’s magical powers for a day, what would you do with them?
Why do you think the magician chose to help Jane? What does this tell us about helping others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, changing your voice for Jane and the magician to spark your child's interest.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next in the story at different points to develop their anticipation and critical thinking skills.
Relate the themes of the book to your child's experiences, such as making new friends or learning something new, to make the story more relatable and meaningful.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to draw a scene from the story or their favorite character, deepening their connection to the narrative.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage
Explanation: Jane demonstrates courage as she bravely confronts the challenges posed by the magician, showing children that it’s okay to face their fears.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by standing up for themselves or others, trying new activities, or speaking up when they feel uncomfortable.
Example Lesson: Creativity and problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Jane uses her creativity to solve puzzles and outsmart the magician, illustrating the power of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination in difficult situations, whether in school projects or in resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Jane’s persistent efforts to overcome obstacles set by the magician teach children the importance of not giving up despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: Kids can embrace this lesson by continuing to work hard on their schoolwork, hobbies, or sports, even when they find them challenging.
Example Lesson: Understanding right from wrong
Explanation: The story highlights ethical decision-making as Jane navigates tricky situations caused by the magician’s tricks.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children in discerning right from wrong in their daily interactions and choosing to act ethically.
Example Lesson: Empathy and helping others
Explanation: Jane shows empathy by helping characters who are negatively affected by the magician’s actions, teaching the importance of caring for others.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be attentive to the feelings and needs of others, offering help or comfort when someone is upset or in trouble.