The Mythics #1: Marina and the Kraken
#1 in Mythics Series
What’s inside...
From Case Closed author Lauren Magaziner and artist Mirelle Ortega comes the first book in a new highly illustrated middle grade fantasy series. Full of action, adventure, and friendship, a team of five girls must stop a powerful villain by finding their mythical familiars.
It’s Pairing Day in Terrafamiliar! Marina has been waiting for this moment—anxiously—for as long as she can remember. Because today’s the day she gets to bond with her animal familiar for life, like every other ten-year-old in the land.
Except after the ceremony ends, Marina doesn’t have one. And she’s not alone . . . four other girls also didn’t get their animal companions. The leaders of Terrafamiliar realize something special is happening: Marina and the other four girls—Kit, Ember, Pippa, and Hailey—are called Mythics
In times of unrest, the Mythics must earn their Mythies—mythical beasts—in quests of courage. But danger lurks everywhere as there are others seeking this mysterious power. And only the Mythics can save Terrafamiliar!
Why read this book
- Adventure-filled plot with mythical creatures.
- Encourages bravery and friendship values.
- Boosts imagination and creativity in young readers.
- Suitable for improving reading skills and focus.
Discussion points
How did Marina's actions show her bravery? Can you think of a time when you were brave like her?
What do you think the Kraken represents in the story? Why do you think the author chose a Kraken instead of another creature?
How did Marina’s relationship with her friends change throughout the book? What does this teach us about friendships?
If you could give Marina one piece of advice at the start of her adventure, what would it be and why?
What do you think is the most important lesson Marina learned during her adventure? How can you apply this lesson to your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate Marina's experiences to real-life situations your child might face, helping them connect with the character's choices and growth.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the Kraken and any personal fears they might have, discussing how fears can sometimes be misunderstood or less scary when confronted.
Highlight the evolution of friendships in the story, prompting your child to share stories of their own friendships and how they have grown or been challenged.
Ask open-ended questions that allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, reinforcing the importance of their perspective.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: Marina faces the daunting Kraken but learns to overcome her fears.
Real-World Application: Children learn that facing fears, rather than avoiding them, is a crucial part of growing up and can apply this courage in new or intimidating situations.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Marina collaborates with diverse mythical creatures to tackle challenges, showcasing how teamwork yields better solutions.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of working together and respecting others' ideas, skills they can use in group projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout her journey, Marina uses her creativity to solve puzzles and navigate obstacles.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think outside the box and use their imagination to tackle everyday problems.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Marina takes responsibility for her actions and their consequences throughout the story, which plays a major role in the resolution.
Real-World Application: This helps instill a sense of responsibility in children, teaching them to accept the outcomes of their actions in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Interactions with creatures who initially seem frightening teach Marina to understand and empathize with those who are different from herself.
Real-World Application: Promotes an understanding of empathy in children, encouraging them to be open-minded and compassionate towards others.