Shadow Forest
#1 in Shadow Forest Series
on Goodreads (1,665)
What’s inside...
Samuel Blink is the unsuspecting hero of this story, currently on a car ride with his sister Martha, unaware of the life-changing events about to unfold. After a giant log falls and changes their lives, Samuel and Martha are forced to move to Norway with their Aunt Eda. There, Martha disappears into the perilous Shadow Forest, home to dangerous creatures like one-eyed trolls, the sinister huldre-folk, deadly Truth Pixies, and a shadow-stealing witch. Ruled by the evil Changemaker, the forest is so treacherous that those who enter never return. As Samuel is oblivious to all this, revealing it might just ruin the book. From the bestselling author of A Boy Called Christmas, The Girl Who Saved Christmas, Father Christmas and Me and The Truth Pixie. Winner of the Gold Smarties Prize, the Blue Peter Book Award and shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, Samuel Blink is the hero of this story, but he doesn't know it yet. Right now, he and his sister Martha are in the back of his parents' car. He has no idea a giant log is about to fall from the sky and change his life forever. He doesn't know that he and Martha will be forced to move to Norway and eat their Aunt Eda's smelly brown cheese. He hasn't the slightest clue Martha will disappear into the Shadow Forest - a forest full of one-eyed trolls, deadly Truth Pixies, a shadow-stealing witch and the evil Changemaker. Samuel Blink doesn't know any of this. So don't tell him. It might ruin the book. An eerie, funny and exciting fairytale from multi-award-winning author Matt Haig. 'Fascinating and magical . . . Outstanding' The Times
Discussion points
How did Samuel’s journey through the Shadow Forest change him? What did he learn about himself?
Why do you think the author chose a forest as the setting for much of the story? What does the forest symbolize?
Which character in the book would you like to be friends with and why?
If you had a magical power like one of the characters in the book, what would it be and how would you use it?
What was the most surprising moment in the story for you, and why did it stand out?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences. Ask them if they've ever felt similar emotions to the characters in the book.
Discuss the decision-making process of Samuel and how sometimes choices can be difficult. Relate it to decisions they have to make in their own life.
Explore the theme of bravery by discussing what it means to be brave and asking your child about a time they had to be brave.
Use the magical elements of the story to spark creative thinking. Ask your child to imagine their own magical world and describe it.
After finishing the book, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character. This can lead to a discussion about why they made that choice.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: In 'Shadow Forest', the protagonist confronts various fearsome creatures and situations bravely, showing resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing their fears, whether it's trying something new or standing up for themselves.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters encounter numerous obstacles but continue to press forward, demonstrating determination.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of not giving up in the face of difficulties, a lesson applicable in schoolwork, sports, and personal goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of kindness
Explanation: Characters in the story often help each other despite danger, highlighting acts of kindness and compassion.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be kind to others, which can lead to building healthier relationships and fostering a supportive community.
Example Lesson: Power of friendship
Explanation: The main characters build strong bonds and work together to overcome challenges, showcasing the strength found in friendships.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value and nurture friendships, helping them develop social skills and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The mystical elements of the Shadow Forest spark curiosity and encourage exploration throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Stimulates children to explore the world around them, ask questions, and seek knowledge actively.