The Labyrinth of Doom: Once Upon a Tim
#2 of 4 in Once Upon a Tim Series
What’s inside...
Knight-in-training Tim and his best friend, Belinda, embark on a quest to save Princess Grace after she is kidnapped by Prince Ruprecht and trapped in the world's most dangerous maze. Joined by their friends Ferkle and Rover, Tim and Belinda must navigate through treacherous obstacles, fend off menacing beasts, and save the princess before time runs out. They also need to remember how to escape the maze themselves, or they'll be trapped forever.
Character compass
Tim
Belinda
Ferkle
Discussion points
What do you think Tim felt when he first entered the Labyrinth of Doom?
How would you handle a situation where you had to solve a puzzle under pressure, like Tim did?
Why is teamwork important when facing big challenges, as shown in the book?
Can you think of a time when you had to be brave like Tim? What happened?
What do you think is the overall message or lesson of this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to describe their favorite part of the story and why they liked it; it helps them to think critically about what they read.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s experiences, such as discussing a time when they had to work with others to achieve a common goal.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings for the book to foster creative thinking and storytelling skills.
Discuss the characters’ decisions and actions in the book, and ask your child what they would have done differently, promoting moral reasoning.
After reading, have your child draw a scene from the book or write a short story about another adventure for Tim, to deepen connection with the narrative and practice creative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Tim, constantly faces various challenges and threats in the labyrinth but pushes forward bravely.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing their fears and overcoming obstacles, whether it’s trying out for a school play or standing up to a bully.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and critical thinking
Explanation: Tim frequently encounters puzzles and traps that require clever solutions, demonstrating the power of using intellect over strength.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively and analytically when faced with problems, be it in their homework or in resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Tim learns that working together with the friends he meets in the labyrinth can accomplish more than working alone.
Real-World Application: Kids understand the importance of cooperative play and teamwork in school projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Perseverance leads to success
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Tim’s persistent efforts help him navigate the labyrinth successfully.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the merit of persistence and hard work in achieving goals, whether in learning a new skill or completing a difficult task.
Example Lesson: Friendship and trust
Explanation: Tim builds relationships based on trust with characters inside the labyrinth, which are crucial for his survival and success.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of building and maintaining trustful friendships and how such relationships can provide support in challenging times.