Storm-Wake
on Goodreads (486)
What’s inside...
Moss has grown up on a strange and magical island where her father has a plan to control the tempestuous weather. However, the arrival of Callan, a wild boy her age, brings unexpected changes. Moss's feelings for Callan and her connections to the island and her father are tested. The situation intensifies when a young man from the outside world washes up on the beach, bringing news of the Old World, altering their lives forever.
Age
11-12
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Moss
Callan
Pa
Discussion points
How do you think Moss felt when she was discovering new things about her island? What would you feel if you were in her place?
Why do you think the author chose the sea and the storm to play such important roles in Moss's story?
How do you interpret the relationship between Moss and Pa? Can you find examples of how they supported or challenged each other?
What does the story suggest about the nature of reality and dreams? How did Moss cope with the differences between the two?
Do you think Moss changed by the end of the book? What were some key events that influenced her transformation?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their emotions and experiences with those of Moss, fostering empathy and deeper comprehension of the character’s journey.
Discuss the symbolism of the sea and the storm, and explore together how external environments influence internal changes and personal growth.
Highlight the dynamics of Moss and Pa’s relationship, and ask your child to reflect on how relationships in their life affect their personal development.
Guide your child to think critically about the blurred lines between reality and dreams in the story, enhancing their abstract thinking and interpretation skills.
Track Moss’s character development throughout the book with your child, asking them to reflect on what events were turning points and why.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Storm-Wake', the protagonist, Moss, demonstrates resilience as she navigates a world that is constantly changing and often challenging.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of remaining strong and adaptable when faced with difficulties, whether it's dealing with changes at school or challenges in personal relationships.
Example Lesson: Importance of hope and imagination
Explanation: Moss uses her vivid imagination to create a sense of hope and possibility in her isolated environment, transforming the way she perceives her surroundings.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to use their imagination as a powerful tool to overcome difficulties and envision positive outcomes in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Understanding and embracing change
Explanation: As the island in 'Storm-Wake' evolves, Moss learns to accept and embrace the changes around her, understanding that change can bring about new opportunities.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to see change as a natural and beneficial part of life, helping them to adapt to new environments and grow from new experiences.
Example Lesson: Value of questioning and curiosity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Moss is propelled by her desire to uncover the truth about her world, demonstrating the importance of curiosity and critical thinking.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to ask questions and seek their own understanding of the world, promoting a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Strength in storytelling and history
Explanation: Moss’s father shares stories that preserve the history of their world and impart valuable lessons, showing the power of storytelling in shaping perspectives and conveying cultural heritage.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to appreciate and learn from the stories of their own family and culture, helping them build a strong sense of identity and connection to their heritage.