Shad Hadid and the Forbidden Alchemies
#1 in Shad Hadid Series
on Goodreads (44)
What’s inside...
In 'Shad Hadid and the Alchemists of Alexandria,' George Jrejie continues the adventures of Shad Hadid as he returns to the Alexandria Academy for a challenging second term. Dubbed a hero after defeating necromancers and restoring alchemy, Shad faces tougher lessons and the absence of his mentor, Kahem. When he discovers a letter hinting at a way to defeat the necromancers for good, Shad and his friends journey across Lebanon to find the informant. Amidst lurking dangers and uncertainties about whom to trust, they strive to thwart the evil plans and protect their school.
Character compass
Shad Hadid
Discussion points
How do you think Shad felt when he discovered his alchemy powers, and have you ever discovered something new about yourself?
What lessons can we learn from Shad’s courage and determination throughout his adventures?
How do the friendships in the book impact Shad's journey, and why do you think teamwork is important?
If you could possess any of the magical abilities shown in the book, which one would you choose and why?
What are some ways Shad had to differentiate between right and wrong, and how do you approach similar decisions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and draw parallels to their own experiences. Use open-ended questions to foster a deeper understanding of the character's emotions and choices. Share your perspectives and relate them to real-life scenarios to make the conversation more relatable. Highlight the importance of friendship, bravery, and ethics as portrayed in the book to instill these values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: Shad Hadid and the Forbidden Alchemies explores the theme of diversity through its rich cast of characters from varied backgrounds, illustrating the strength and learning that comes from embracing different cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of inclusivity and respect for cultural differences, fostering an open-minded approach in their daily interactions at school and in the community.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Shad demonstrates courage and resilience in the face of daunting challenges and unknown worlds, teaching readers about the value of bravery when confronting obstacles.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to tackle their own challenges, such as trying new activities or standing up for what is right, with determination and bravery.
Example Lesson: Importance of Knowledge
Explanation: The protagonist's journey is heavily influenced by his quest for knowledge, particularly about alchemy. This underscores the power and significance of learning and education.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value their education and be curious learners, exploring new subjects and delving deeper into their studies.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: As Shad navigates his journey, he forms profound friendships that play a crucial role in his quest. The story highlights how teamwork and collaboration are essential to overcoming difficulties.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of building and maintaining friendships, and how cooperative efforts can lead to success.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Loss
Explanation: Shad’s experiences include coping with loss and grief, providing a delicate portrayal of these tough emotions and the importance of overcoming them.
Real-World Application: This can teach children about resilience in times of sorrow and loss, helping them understand and process their emotions healthily.