Mastiff: Beka Cooper
#3 of 3 in Beka Cooper Series
on Goodreads (29,634)
What’s inside...
Three years after a near-death experience in the sewers of Port Caynn, Beka Cooper is now a respected member of the Provost's Guard. Her life changes abruptly when her fiancé is killed during a slave raid, and she contemplates calling off their engagement. This personal turmoil coincides with Beka being assigned a secretive case by Lord Gershom that threatens the future of the Tortallan royal family and government. Alongside her partner Tunstall, her scent hound Achoo, and a powerful mage, Beka embarks on a Hunt involving political dissatisfaction, betrayal, and corruption among influential figures using dark magic. This challenging case takes her beyond the city and tests her tracking skills and judgment in trusting others with her life and her country's future.
Discussion points
What character traits do you admire in Beka Cooper, and why?
How do Beka’s experiences and challenges help her grow throughout the story?
In what ways do the themes of justice and loyalty appear in the book, and what do you think they teach us?
What decisions would you have made if you were in Beka’s position during her adventures?
How do you think teamwork and friendship are portrayed in the story, and why are they important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by asking them how they would feel or react in similar situations as Beka.
Discuss the historical and fantasy elements of the book. Ask what seems realistic and what might be purely imaginative.
Explore the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Ask your child what they would do in those situations and why.
Highlight Beka’s development and ask your child in what ways they think she has changed from the beginning to the end of the book.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of courage and integrity with your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Integrity and honesty
Explanation: Beka Cooper consistently demonstrates integrity and honesty as she navigates her role as a young law-enforcer. Despite facing various challenges, she remains committed to truth and justice.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value honesty in their daily interactions and understand the importance of being truthful, even in difficult circumstances.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and resilience
Explanation: Throughout the story, Beka faces numerous setbacks in her quest to uphold the law, but she never gives up. Her resilience in overcoming obstacles serves as a central theme.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence when facing challenges in schoolwork, sports, or relationships.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: Beka shows empathy and compassion towards the less fortunate and those in need, which underscores her strong moral character.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering a kinder, more inclusive environment at school and at home.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem solving
Explanation: The book highlights Beka's use of critical thinking and problem-solving skills as she unravels mysteries and navigates complex situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to develop and rely on their reasoning abilities to solve problems and make decisions.