The Islands of Chaldea
not part of a series
on Goodreads (2,413)
What’s inside...
The Islands of Chaldea is a stand-alone novel of magic and adventure by the renowned fantasy author Diana Wynne Jones, who also wrote Howl's Moving Castle and the Chrestomanci books. The manuscript, almost finished upon her death in 2011, was completed by her sister Ursula Jones. The story follows Aileen, who comes from a long line of magic makers. Despite being old enough, her magic has not yet revealed itself. Sent on a mission for the King, Aileen fears she'll be useless, but a powerful talking cat and the challenges she faces help her gain confidence and her magic begins to bloom. Publishers Weekly praised the book as 'a story to cherish' in their starred review.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
277 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Aileen
Prince Alasdair
Ogo
Aunt Beck
Discussion points
What do you think makes the islands of Chaldea unique? How do they differ from the world we live in?
If you could have a magical power like the characters in the book, what would it be and why?
How do the characters in the story show teamwork? Can you think of a time when you had to work with others to achieve something?
What did you learn about facing challenges from the characters' adventures?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in today's world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to visualize the setting by asking them to draw one of the islands described in the book.
Link the magical elements of the story to real-world science or geography concepts to enrich learning.
Discuss the moral decisions characters make in the book, and relate them to everyday choices and consequences.
Use the teamwork displayed by characters as an opportunity to talk about the importance of cooperation and how it can be applied at school or home.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next after pivotal points in the story to develop their analytical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'The Islands of Chaldea', the characters must work together to complete a magical quest, demonstrating how cooperation can lead to achieving common goals.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of collaborating with others, whether in school projects or in family activities, encouraging them to contribute and value others' contributions.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: The protagonist, Aileen, embarks on an uncertain journey, showing bravery in the face of new challenges and the unknown.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach new situations or changes in life with bravery, be it trying a new sport, starting a new school, or making new friends.
Example Lesson: The power of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Aileen faces various obstacles but her determination helps her to keep going and eventually succeed.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of staying determined and persistent when facing their own challenges, understanding that not giving up is key to overcoming difficulties.
Example Lesson: Respect for diverse cultures
Explanation: The story's setting across different islands with unique cultures teaches respect and appreciation for diversity.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to learn about and respect different cultures in their community and beyond, promoting inclusive behaviors and attitudes.
Example Lesson: Understanding and forgiveness
Explanation: Characters learn to understand each other's differences and mistakes, leading to forgiveness and stronger relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children navigate their social interactions, teaching them the value of empathy, understanding, and forgiving others in their everyday life.