Midnight Magic
#1 of 3 in Midnight Magic Series
What’s inside...
In the middle of winter, three kittens are born in a barn. Two are ordinary, but the third, jet black and born on the stroke of midnight, is brimming with magic from whiskers to tail - even sparking life into a dusty old broomstick! While her siblings pounce at rats, Midnight perfects her flying skills on the broom, not noticing how her mother disapproves of her magical ways. When Midnight finds herself abandoned, the little black kitten sets out to find a new home with only her loyal broom Twiggy at her side. The pair soon befriend a kind-hearted girl called Trixie. But how will Trixie's family react to Midnight's extraordinary powers and taste for mischief? A bewitching new series from the best-selling author of A PINCH OF MAGIC, Michelle Harrison. Told in rhyming verse and illustrated in colour throughout, this is perfect for readers of SQUISHY MCFLUFF, HUBBLE BUBBLE and GOBBOLINO.
Discussion points
What do you think are the hidden powers of the main character, and how do they influence the story?
How do the friendships in 'Midnight Magic' change throughout the book? Which friendship was your favorite and why?
What is the significance of 'magic' in the story? How does it affect the characters and the world around them?
If you could use the magic from the book in your day to day life, what would you do with it?
How does the setting contribute to the mood of 'Midnight Magic'? Can you describe a place in the book that you found interesting or scary?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine being in the magical situations from the book. Ask how they would feel and what they would do differently.
Discuss the moral choices characters make in the book. This opens a dialogue about values and decision-making.
Use the magical elements of the story to foster creativity. Suggest drawing a scene from the book or creating a new magical character together.
Connect themes from the book to real life, asking questions like 'Have you ever felt like you had a special power that helped you in any situation?'
Praise your child’s insights and responses to encourage deeper thinking and connection to the reading material.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and self-belief
Explanation: In 'Midnight Magic', the protagonist faces various challenges that test her bravery and self-confidence. Despite fears and doubts, she learns to trust in her own abilities and wisdom.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to believe in themselves when facing new challenges, such as starting a new school or trying out for a sports team, understanding that courage comes from within.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters must work together to overcome obstacles. The book highlights how collaboration and supporting each other are key to success.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of cooperation in group activities at school or in play, showing how teamwork can lead to accomplishing goals more effectively.
Example Lesson: Consequences of choices
Explanation: As the characters in 'Midnight Magic' make various choices, the outcomes demonstrate the consequences - good or bad - of their decisions.
Real-World Application: Children can relate this to making daily decisions and understanding that their choices can affect themselves and others, promoting thoughtful decision-making.
Example Lesson: Importance of kindness and empathy
Explanation: The story portrays characters who show compassion and understanding towards others, showcasing the positive impact of these traits.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to practice empathy and kindness in their interactions, helping them build stronger relationships with family and peers.