The City's Son: in hidden London you'll find marvels, magic . . . and menace (Skyscraper Throne Book 1)
#1 of 3 in Skyscraper Throne Series
on Goodreads (1,658)
What’s inside...
Tom Pollock's debut novel and the first volume of the Skyscraper Throne series, The City's Son is an imaginative tale of adventure set in a city that is quite literally alive. Beneath the streets of London lies a city of monsters and miracles, where wild train spirits stampede over the tracks and glass-skinned dancers with glowing veins light the streets. Following a devastating betrayal, Beth Bradley, a sixteen-year-old graffiti artist, is suspended from school. Running from a home that she shares with her father who has never recovered after Beth's mother's death, Beth stumbles into the hidden city and meets Filius Viae, London's asphalt-hued crown prince. And her timing couldn't have been more perfect. An ancient enemy is stirring under St. Paul's Cathedral, determined to stoke the flames of a centuries-old war, and Beth and Fin find themselves drawn into the depths of the mysterious urban wonderland, hoping to prevent the destruction of the city they both know and love.
Discussion points
What do you think about the hidden world of London described in the book? How is it different from the real world?
How do the characters in the story show bravery and teamwork? Can you share an example from the book?
If you could meet any character from 'The City's Son,' who would it be and why?
What kind of challenges do the characters face, and how do they overcome them?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in our city instead of London?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine and describe their version of a hidden magical city. Ask them what kind of creatures and landmarks it might have. This opens up a platform for creative thinking. Discuss the moral decisions characters make in the book, relating them to real-life scenarios your child might face, enhancing their problem-solving and ethical reasoning. Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of friendship and teamwork, and ask your child to draw parallels to their own experiences. This helps in understanding relational dynamics and cooperative behaviors.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Beth, displays bravery as she navigates the hidden, magical layers of London, confronting unknown dangers to protect her city.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of standing firm and being courageous, even when situations are unfamiliar or challenging.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Beth and her friend Pen form a strong bond and rely on each other throughout their adventures, showing how trust and teamwork are essential.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of building trusting relationships and cooperating with others to overcome obstacles.
Example Lesson: The impact of perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Beth persists in her quest, demonstrating that determination can lead to success even under the most dire circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children learn that persisting through difficulties, regardless of the obstacles, is crucial in achieving one's goals.
Example Lesson: Understanding and embracing differences
Explanation: Beth encounters a variety of creatures and characters in magical London, learning to understand and embrace the differences that make each unique.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate diversity in others and understand that everyone has something valuable to contribute.
Example Lesson: Responsibility to protect one's community
Explanation: As the story unfolds, Beth feels a growing sense of responsibility to protect the city and its hidden magical beings, showing leadership and civic duty.
Real-World Application: It instills in children a sense of duty to care for and contribute positively to their community, encouraging active participation and leadership.