The House at the Edge of Magic
#1 of 4 in The House at the Edge of Magic Series
on Goodreads (3,244)
What’s inside...
Nine is an orphan pickpocket determined to escape her life in the Nest of a Thousand Treasures. When she steals a house-shaped ornament from a mysterious woman's purse, she knocks on its tiny door and watches it grow into a huge, higgledy-piggeldy house. Inside she finds a host of magical and brilliantly funny characters, including Flabberghast – a young wizard who’s particularly competitive at hopscotch – and a hideous troll housekeeper who’s emotionally attached to his feather duster. They have been placed under an extraordinary spell, which they are desperate for Nine to break. If she can, maybe they can offer her a new life in return...
Discussion points
What do you think it means for a house to be at the 'edge of magic'? How does this idea make you feel?
Which character in the book did you relate to the most, and why?
If you could choose one magical object from the house, which one would it be and what would you do with it?
How do you think Nine felt when she discovered the magical secrets of the house? Have you ever discovered something that surprised you?
What lessons do you think we can learn from the adventures and challenges Nine faced?
Tip: Role play these questions
Allow your child to express their thoughts freely on each question, validating their feelings and thoughts to encourage deeper thinking.
Connect the story to real-life situations, asking if they have ever faced something similar to what Nine encountered and how they handled it.
Discuss the importance of bravery and curiosity, values shown by Nine, and ask your child how they could apply these values in their own life.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or different magical events that could happen in the house, boosting their creative thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist, Nine, consistently faces challenges and setbacks in her quest to return home, but she never gives up. Her determination sees her through various magical obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach their own challenges, such as difficult schoolwork or learning new skills, with the same steadfast determination and resilience shown by Nine.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout her journey, Nine forms bonds with the various magical residents of the house. These friendships play crucial roles in helping her navigate through the magical realm.
Real-World Application: This story can encourage children to value and nurture their own friendships, understanding how collaboration and support can help overcome difficulties.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: Nine bravely enters and explores the mysterious magical house, despite not knowing what she might encounter. Her courage leads her to discover a world of wonders and new friends.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to step out of their comfort zones and explore new experiences, whether it's trying a new activity, making new friends, or asking questions about the world around them.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the story, Nine encounters problems that require creative thinking and problem-solving, which she approaches logically and cleverly.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of thinking through their problems and coming up with thoughtful, innovative solutions.