The Minstrel in the Tower (Stepping Stone)
A Stepping Stone Book(TM) Series
on Goodreads (896)
What’s inside...
In this gripping medieval page-turner, Roger and his sister Alice are kidnapped and held for ransom in an ancient tower. To escape and find their uncle, the children must summon all their courage and imagination. Designed as easy-reading material for middle-graders, this book has the virtues of an attractive format and illustrations, a fast plot, and even a feminist fillip: Alice is the more intrepid of the siblings, while Roger's gifts are for music and ventriloquism.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you were in Roger’s shoes and had to find help for your mother? How would you feel?
How do the characters show bravery throughout the story? Can you think of a time you had to be brave?
What do you think about the minstrel’s role in the story? What does his music add to their journey?
How did Roger and Alice change by the end of the book? What did they learn about themselves and each other?
If you could ask any character in the book a question, who would it be and what would you ask?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the characters' shoes, fostering empathy and deeper understanding of the characters’ decisions and feelings.
Discuss the historical setting of the story and how it might influence the characters’ actions and the plot. This can provide a multidimensional view of the narrative.
Highlight moments of tension and ask your child how they would handle similar situations, promoting problem-solving and critical thinking.
After reading, ask your child to summarize the story in their own words. This helps reinforce comprehension and retention of the plot.
Use the story’s themes to connect with your child’s experiences, such as discussing times when they faced fears or helped someone.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Bravery and Courage
Explanation: In 'The Minstrel in the Tower', the young characters, Roger and Alice, embark on a courageous journey to seek help from their uncle to save their mother. Their bravery is demonstrated as they face and overcome various challenges during their adventure.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and challenges courageously, understanding that bravery is not the absence of fear, but the ability to overcome it despite feeling scared.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout their journey, Roger and Alice learn to work together, combining their strengths to solve problems and support each other. Their teamwork is pivotal in overcoming the obstacles they encounter.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of collaborating with others, encouraging them to participate in team activities and learn how to cooperate effectively to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The siblings often find themselves in situations where they need to think critically and devise solutions, such as when finding their way to their uncle’s house or dealing with strangers.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving skills in their daily interactions and schoolwork, enhancing their ability to think critically and make informed decisions.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Despite the difficulties Roger and Alice face, they persist in their mission to find help for their mother, showcasing their determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to remain determined and persistent in their own goals, whether in academics, sports, or personal hobbies, even when faced with challenges.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Kindness
Explanation: The siblings show empathy and kindness to the people they meet on their journey, understanding different perspectives and offering help when needed.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being empathetic and kind towards others, fostering a sense of compassion and community in their everyday interactions.