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Spirit Sight: Epic fantasy in medieval Wales (Last of the Gifted - Book One)

#1 of 2 in Last Of The Gifted Series

4.51
on Goodreads (57)

What’s inside...

Two siblings pledge their magical gifts to protect their people from the invading English, with the help of the last true Prince of Wales—after his murder. Warrior-in-training Hyw can control the minds of animals. His sister Catrin can see the future in a drop of water. Now they are all that stand between their people and Longshank's ruthless army. Hyw’s gift—seeing through the eyes of birds and animals—could win him a place in the Prince of Wales’ bodyguard. But when the Prince of Wales is murdered, Hyw melds with the prince’s soul, gaining his help against the English. Hyw’s sister Catrin sees visions of death and disaster. The young nobleman she’s pledged to marry thinks his love endangers her gift. But they must work together to help prevent the genocide she foresees. When they reunite, Hyw and Catrin must use their magical gifts to protect the prince’s brother—and each other—from the English invaders. This award-winning medieval fantasy combines magic, mythology, and forgotten legends with the historical realities of 13th Century Wales. Book 1 in the Last of the Gifted series.
In series
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

13-18

Length

272 pages

Text complexity

Discussion points

What did you think about the unique abilities of the characters in 'Spirit Sight'? How do you think you would use such powers if you had them?
The setting of the book is medieval Wales. What did you find interesting about this time and place? How do you think the story would change if it were set in today's world?
The story explores themes of courage and sacrifice. Can you share a time when you felt brave or made a sacrifice for someone else?
How do the characters in the story grow and change throughout the book? Can you relate to any of their experiences or feelings?
What do you think will happen next in the series? What challenges do you think the characters will face?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions to encourage your child to think critically about the story and relate it to their own experiences.
Discuss the historical and cultural context of medieval Wales to enhance understanding and appreciation of the setting.
Highlight the moral dilemmas and character development in the story to foster empathy and ethical reasoning in your child.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative scenarios or endings to stimulate creativity and narrative skills.
Use the discussion as an opportunity to bond over shared reading and discover new insights together.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist's continuous efforts to protect their loved ones in the face of adversity showcase the importance of never giving up, despite challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn to persist in their goals and activities, whether it be completing school assignments, learning a new skill, or solving personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Understanding the consequences of actions
Explanation: Characters in the story face various consequences based on their decisions, teaching readers that every choice has an impact.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children think before acting and encourages them to consider the possible effects of their actions on themselves and others.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: As characters interact and face hardships, the story highlights the importance of understanding and caring for others' feelings and situations.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be empathetic towards their peers, fostering a supportive and understanding environment in school and at home.
Example Lesson: Courage to confront fears
Explanation: The characters often take brave actions in daunting situations, demonstrating the importance of facing fears head-on.
Real-World Application: This narrative can motivate children to tackle their fears, whether it's trying out for a sports team, making new friends, or standing up for what's right.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Characters must often work together to overcome obstacles, highlighting the effectiveness of collaboration and mutual support.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of teamwork in achieving common goals, be it in classroom projects, family tasks, or playing team sports.