Longbow Girl
Karma, bloodlines and unfinished business Series
on Goodreads (1,023)
What’s inside...
A stunningly exciting and dramatic story set in the wilds of the Welsh mountains, where the brave and beautiful Merry Owen, the Longbow Girl, travels back in time to the autocratic kingdom of King Henry VIII to save her ancestors. Steeped in history, ancient lore and crackling with tension between the central characters Merry and James, Longbow Girl explores the themes of who we are and who we can become when fighting for those we love and for our very lives. Are we prisoners of our history or can we break free? Can we become all that we need to be to meet the ultimate challenge of life and death in the King’s Tournament and in the dungeons of the Black Castle?
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-18
Length
336 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Merry Owen
James De Courcy
Morgan Owen
Colonel De Courcy
Discussion points
How did Merry's journey to find the truth about her family's past change her view of her own identity?
What role do bravery and perseverance play in Merry's adventures?
How does Merry's relationship with her family and friends influence her decisions throughout the story?
In what ways does the setting of the Welsh mountains contribute to the overall mood and challenges in the story?
What did you learn about the importance of history and legacy from 'Longbow Girl'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the characteristics they share with Merry, such as bravery or curiosity, and discuss how these traits can be important in their own lives.
Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them, fostering a deeper connection to the story's themes and characters.
Together, explore the historical elements of the book, perhaps looking up additional information about Welsh history or longbow archery to enhance understanding and engagement.
Discuss the obstacles Merry faces and ask your child how they would handle similar challenges, bridging connections between the book and real-life scenarios.
Invite your child to imagine what happens to the characters after the book ends, encouraging creative thinking and storytelling skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Longbow Girl', the protagonist, Merry, demonstrates resilience as she navigates the challenges posed by her family's past and her personal ambitions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persevere through their own challenges, whether it's difficulties in school, sports, or personal relationships.
Example Lesson: The importance of family and heritage
Explanation: The story deeply roots itself in the history of Merry's family, showing how past generations shape present circumstances.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to value and learn from their own family histories and traditions.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: Merry shows courage by venturing into unfamiliar situations to protect her family and uncover hidden truths.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new experiences.
Example Lesson: Integrity in decision making
Explanation: Merry's decisions are guided by her moral compass, often choosing what is right over what is easy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of making decisions that reflect their values, even when faced with peer pressure.
Example Lesson: Empowerment through knowledge
Explanation: Throughout the book, Merry's understanding of her family’s history and her skills with the longbow empower her to make impactful choices.
Real-World Application: This highlights for children how gaining knowledge and skills can equip them to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others.