The Black Dogs of Doom
#3 in Mystic Adventures Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
The Ness - 600 is a time and place of peace, until the black dogs arrive, spreading discord and ultimately doom. But that is many years ago, and Simon and his mother are unaware of their links to this far away time when they come to live with old Mrs Chemaly and her old, battered book.
Discussion points
What do you think the Black Dogs represent in the story?
How did the characters' feelings change throughout the book?
What would you do if you were in the protagonist's place?
How did the characters work together to solve their problems?
What is the most important lesson you learned from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book's themes to create an open and relaxed environment for conversation.
Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them, to encourage critical thinking about storytelling.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the conflicts in the book and their own experiences, fostering personal connections with the narrative.
Discuss the decisions made by the characters and ask if your child would have done anything differently, promoting moral and ethical reasoning.
End the conversation by asking your child how they might apply the book’s lessons in their own life, reinforcing the practical value of the story's themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of fear
Explanation: The protagonist confronts the mysterious black dogs despite being afraid, showcasing bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own fears, whether it's trying out for a team or standing up to a bully.
Example Lesson: Friendship and trust
Explanation: The characters rely on each other to overcome obstacles, highlighting the importance of trust in friendships.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of supporting and trusting their friends in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The characters use their wit and resources to unravel the mystery of the black dogs, demonstrating effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and solve problems they encounter in school or during play.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The protagonist takes responsibility for resolving the crisis, teaching accountability.
Real-World Application: Kids understand the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and the consequences that follow.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite challenges, the characters persist in their quest, showcasing perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persistence in overcoming difficulties, be it in their studies, sports, or personal goals.