The Enchanted Quest
#2 in The Secret Keepers Series
What’s inside...
In Twenty Questions, acclaimed author Mac Barnett and Caldecott Honor recipient Christian Robinson collaborate to create a narrative that delves into the nature of curiosity and questioning. Through playful and profound queries, Barnett encourages readers to embrace the boundless nature of inquiry. The book's whimsical illustrations by Robinson enhance the sense of wonder and exploration, making it a richly interactive experience. This charming invitation beckons readers to speculate limitlessly and embrace the endless possibilities of storytelling.
Discussion points
What do you think is the most magical part of the quest, and why?
How do you think the characters felt during their journey? Can you relate to any of their feelings?
If you could have a magical power like one of the characters, what would it be and what would you do with it?
What lessons do you think the characters learned by the end of the story?
Imagine you are part of the story. What role would you play and how would you help the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their favorite part of the book and ask why they liked it. This helps deepen their understanding and connection to the story.
Discuss the characters’ decisions and actions, asking your child what they might have done differently. This fosters critical thinking.
Link themes from the book to real-life scenarios your child may encounter, which enhances their ability to apply lessons learned from reading.
Use expressive reading to make the story come alive. This can include altering your voice for different characters or creating suspense before revealing key plot points.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book. This fun activity allows children to express their understanding and perception of the story creatively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: In 'The Enchanted Quest,' the characters face numerous challenges and obstacles on their journey. Despite difficulties, they continue to strive towards their goals, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by not giving up easily when they face challenges in school or in learning new skills, understanding that persistence is key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters must work together to solve puzzles and navigate dangers, showing that collaboration is essential for success.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of cooperating with others, whether in group projects at school, in sports teams, or in family activities, highlighting that collective effort often yields the best results.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of the unknown
Explanation: The protagonists venture into unfamiliar territories and face unknown entities, yet they muster courage to confront these fears, illustrating bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face new or intimidating situations with bravery, whether it's trying out a new activity, standing up for themselves, or making new friends.
Example Lesson: The power of curiosity and learning
Explanation: The characters' quest is driven by a desire to discover and learn, which leads them to new insights and wisdom, emphasizing the importance of curiosity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to embrace learning, ask questions, and seek out knowledge in their everyday lives, fostering a lifelong love for education.
Example Lesson: Kindness and empathy toward others
Explanation: As the characters interact with diverse beings, showing kindness and understanding, they learn valuable lessons from each encounter, promoting empathy.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be considerate and empathetic in their interactions, helping them build meaningful relationships and understand perspectives different from their own.