The Girl of Ink and Stars
on Goodreads (16,635)
What’s inside...
Winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2017, and the British Book Awards' Children's Book of Year 2017. Forbidden to leave her island, Isabella Riosse dreams of the faraway lands her father once mapped. When her closest friend disappears into the island’s Forgotten Territories, she volunteers to guide the search. As a cartographer’s daughter, she’s equipped with elaborate ink maps and knowledge of the stars, and is eager to navigate the island’s forgotten heart. But the world beyond the walls is a monster-filled wasteland – and beneath the dry rivers and smoking mountains, a legendary fire demon is stirring from its sleep. Soon, following her map, her heart and an ancient myth, Isabella discovers the true end of her journey: to save the island itself.
Age
10-12
Length
228 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities do you admire most in Isabella, and why?
How do you think the map helped Isabella on her journey, and what does it symbolize in the story?
How did Isabella's relationship with her friends and family influence her decisions and actions?
What did you learn about bravery and courage from this story?
If you were in Isabella's shoes, what would you have done differently on the adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story and its characters. Ask them to relate the challenges faced by Isabella to their own experiences. Discuss the importance of friendship, courage, and determination as portrayed in the book. Highlight how maps and other tools can symbolically represent personal growth and understanding. Finally, affirm any expression of empathy or connection your child makes with the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: Isabella, the protagonist, demonstrates courage and resilience as she navigates through dangers to save her friend and her island.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing fears and overcoming obstacles, which can help them tackle challenges at school or in social situations.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of friendship and loyalty as Isabella risks her life to find her missing friend.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to value and support their friends, fostering healthy and supportive relationships from a young age.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge
Explanation: Isabella's quest is driven by her desire to learn more about her world, showcasing the intrinsic value of curiosity and knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be inquisitive and enthusiastic about learning, whether it’s in their academic subjects or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: Responsibility towards community and environment
Explanation: Throughout her adventure, Isabella shows a strong sense of duty towards her community and the environment, highlighting the themes of stewardship and conservation.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to participate in community service and be mindful of their environmental impact.