The Merchant of Death / The Lost City of Faar / The Never War (Pendragon)
#1 in Pendragon Series
on Goodreads (444)
What’s inside...
The first three books in the series--The Merchant of Death, The Lost City of Faar, and The Never War--packaged together follow Bobby Pendragon across the universe to save the world from evil. Bobby Pendragon is a seemingly normal fourteen-year-old boy. But there is something very special about Bobby. He is going to save the world. And not just Earth as we know it. Bobby is swept off to an alternate dimension known as Denduron, a territory ruled by a magical tyrant, and plagued by dangerous revolution. If Bobby wants to see his family again, he's going to have to accept his role as savior. Because, as he is about to discover, Denduron is only the beginning.
Character compass
Bobby Pendragon
Alvin "Gunny" Van Dyke
Alder
Vo Spader
Mark Dimond
Loor
Courtney Chetwynde
Press Tilton
Saint Dane
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Bobby Pendragon’s decisions in the story? How would you have reacted in his situation?
How do the different territories in the Pendragon series compare to our world? What similarities or differences do you see?
How do Bobby's relationships with other characters influence his journey? Can you think of any relationships in your life that similarly influence you?
What lessons do you think Bobby learned through his adventures? Have you learned any similar lessons in your own experiences?
If you had the chance to visit one of the territories from the book, which one would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the protagonist’s choices and consider alternative decisions Bobby might have made.
Draw parallels between the fantastical elements of the Pendragon series and real-world issues or concepts, fostering deeper understanding and connection.
Discuss the importance of relationships and teamwork showcased throughout the series, prompting your child to reflect on their personal interactions and growth.
Use Bobby’s adventures as a springboard to discuss real-life lessons about courage, friendship, and responsibility.
Stimulate imagination by asking your child to describe how they envision different territories or key moments in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the 'Pendragon' series, the protagonist Bobby Pendragon works closely with his friends to solve problems and face challenges. Their collaborative efforts are key to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of cooperating with others, whether in school projects or in sports, understanding that teamwork can achieve greater outcomes than working alone.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and leadership
Explanation: Bobby Pendragon takes on significant responsibilities as a Traveler, showing leadership in difficult situations. His experiences teach the importance of stepping up when needed.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand the role of a leader and the importance of being responsible, encouraging them to take initiative in their own lives, whether it’s in completing assignments or in helping out at home.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: As Bobby travels to different territories and faces various challenges, he learns to adapt to unexpected situations. This flexibility is crucial to his success.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being flexible and adapting to changes, such as moving to a new school or dealing with a change in a family situation, helping them to cope effectively.
Example Lesson: The consequences of choices
Explanation: The series emphasizes that choices have consequences, whether good or bad. Bobby's decisions impact not only himself but also those around him and the worlds he visits.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to consider the potential outcomes of their actions and to make thoughtful decisions, a skill that aids in developing moral reasoning and ethical thinking.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Bobby often confronts fears and takes risks to achieve his goals and protect his friends. His bravery is a central theme throughout the series.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to face their fears whether it’s trying out for a new sport, standing up against bullying, or dealing with personal challenges, demonstrating that courage is vital in overcoming obstacles.