#1 in The Wingfeather Saga Series
The Monster in the Hollows
on Goodreads (15,820)
What’s inside...
The Monster in the Hollows is the third book in the Wingfeather Saga series. The story follows the Igiby family as they seek refuge from the Fangs of Dang in the Green Hollows, a land where trees grow in a myriad of colors, animals are strange and dazzling, and the people are rugged and brave. However, the Igibys carry the secret of the lost Jewels of Anniera, and there are those who would do anything to take them.
Why read this book
- Captivating adventure with impactful moral lessons.
- Strengthens empathy through diverse, engaging characters.
- Encourages creativity through fantastical scenarios.
- Supports cognitive development with complex narrative structure.
The Big Picture
- Understanding identity and self-acceptance.
- Navigating complex emotions and family dynamics.
- Learning forgiveness and its power to heal.
Diversity & Representation
- Explores themes of acceptance across diverse cultures.
- Characters show varied backgrounds promoting inclusion.
- Introduces different societal roles, fostering societal perspective.
Book in series
#1
Age
7-11
Length
348 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
How do you think Janner felt when he arrived in the Hollows? Can you relate to his emotions?
What do you think makes the Hollows a unique place? What would you do if you were there?
Can you describe a time when you faced a challenge like Janner and his siblings? How did you overcome it?
What did you learn about courage and friendship from this story?
How do you think the story would change if you were one of the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Set the scene for each reading session to make it more immersive. Perhaps read in a cozy, comfortable spot to reflect the Hollows' setting.
Encourage personal connections by asking your child to relate their experiences to those of Janner and his siblings during discussions.
Pause at suspenseful moments in the story to predict what might happen next, enhancing engagement and critical thinking.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character, then describe why they chose that particular element.
Praise your child’s responses to show that their thoughts and feelings about the book are valued and important.
What parents love
Great for sparking deep conversations.
Kids loved the thrilling, imaginative plot.
Handles sensitive topics with care.
Perfect blend of fun and moral lessons.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of fear
Explanation: The protagonist of 'The Monster in the Hollows' frequently faces challenging situations that require bravery. These moments teach children that courage isn’t about the absence of fear, but rather the decision to confront fear and overcome it.
Real-World Application: Children learn that being brave can help them face everyday fears like trying new activities, standing up to bullies, or speaking out in class.
Example Lesson: The importance of forgiveness
Explanation: Characters in the book learn to forgive others for past wrongs, which is pivotal in repairing relationships. This theme helps children grasp the healing power of forgiveness.
Real-World Application: This lesson guides children to practice forgiveness, easing conflicts and fostering stronger friendships and family bonds.
Example Lesson: Understanding and accepting differences
Explanation: The book portrays various characters who are different from each other but learn to live together harmoniously, teaching the value of acceptance and diversity.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by embracing classmate's differences, whether they are cultural, physical, or in opinions, leading to a more inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters encounter setbacks yet continue to strive towards their goals. This persistence is a powerful lesson for young readers.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of not giving up in the face of difficulties, be it in completing homework, learning a new skill, or participating in sports.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and leadership
Explanation: As the protagonist takes on challenges, they also shoulder responsibility and demonstrate leadership, crucial traits for personal growth.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of taking responsibility in group tasks at school or in family chores, promoting reliability and leadership skills among peers.