The Boy, the Wolf, and the Stars
on Goodreads (237)
What’s inside...
A boy and his pet fox go on a quest to find a wolf who has eaten all the stars in the sky before the Shadow Witch destroys the stars, removing good magic from the world forever. Along the way, they are joined by a girl whose magic is tied to the return of the stars, and a bird-woman who has vowed to protect them. They must find three magical keys to release the stars, while facing angry villagers, greedy merchants, a vengeful wolf, and an evil witch lurking in the shadows. This compelling fantasy, filled with magic and adventure, is perfect for fans of The Girl Who Drank the Moon and Nevermoor.
Age
8-12
Length
384 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Bo was chosen for the quest to bring back the stars?
How did the relationship between Bo and the wolf change throughout the story?
What do you think are the important qualities of a hero that Bo demonstrated?
Can you think of a time when you had to be brave, like Bo?
What would you do if you were in Bo's place and had to decide between an easy but wrong option, or a hard but right one?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think deeply about the characters and plot. Ask them to connect emotions and events in the book with their own experiences. Use the discussion as an opportunity to explore moral and ethical questions, and to reinforce the values of courage, friendship, and responsibility.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: The protagonist, Bo, musters the courage to embark on a perilous journey to restore the stars to the sky, facing various challenges along the way.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to face their fears and step out of their comfort zones, whether it's trying new activities or standing up for what's right.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and perseverance
Explanation: Bo feels a sense of duty to fix the sky and persistently pursues his goal despite obstacles, showing perseverance.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and the value of persistence in achieving their objectives.
Example Lesson: The power of friendship
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Bo learns to trust and rely on his new friends, realizing that teamwork and cooperation are invaluable.
Real-World Application: Highlights the importance of building friendships and working together to overcome challenges in school, sports, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Bo learns to understand and empathize with others, including those he initially views as enemies or fears.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to empathize with peers and strive to understand different perspectives, promoting inclusivity and compassion.