The Promise
Young black stallion Series
What’s inside...
Young twins, Millie and Oliver Freeman, along with their cosmic friend Quark, embark on a quest to find a sacred object called The Cornerstone. They race against powerful enemies who also seek the object, encountering ancient mysteries and perilous threats along the way. The fate of humanity hangs in the balance as the twins navigate historic sites and unravel the secrets behind The Cornerstone. This fantasy narrative blends factual elements with the inexplicable, promising an engaging and unique reading experience for all ages.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-18
Length
222 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the main character's promise change her life and the lives around her?
What does the garden symbolize in the story?
Why is it important to keep promises, like the character did in the book?
How do you think the community felt before and after the garden was grown?
What are some promises you have made? How do you feel about keeping them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the importance of promises and trust by relating it to their own experiences.
Discuss the transformative power of nature and community as depicted in the story to reinforce the themes of growth and change.
Use the garden in the story as a metaphor to explore themes of renewal and hope with your child, asking them what they would grow in their own 'garden'.
Highlight the emotional journey of the characters in the book, prompting your child to explore and express their own feelings about change and promises.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of keeping promises
Explanation: The protagonist in 'The Promise' makes a commitment and goes through various challenges to keep it, demonstrating the value of integrity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to fulfill their promises in daily activities, whether it's returning a borrowed item or completing a task they agreed to do.
Example Lesson: The power of kindness and generosity
Explanation: As the story unfolds, acts of kindness transform a gloomy environment into a lively and happy one, showing how generosity can lead to positive changes.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be kind and generous towards their friends, family, and even strangers, making their own surroundings more positive.
Example Lesson: Responsibility for the environment
Explanation: The narrative incorporates themes of caring for nature and revitalizing the environment, highlighting the protagonist’s role in nurturing their surroundings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take care of plants, recycle, and be mindful of their impact on the environment, fostering a sense of ecological responsibility.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The main character shows determination and persistence despite difficulties, illustrating the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persevere in their goals and studies, even when they face challenges or setbacks.
Example Lesson: The impact of positive change
Explanation: The book showcases how one individual's positive actions can influence an entire community, teaching the effect of good deeds on a larger scale.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to engage in community service or acts that benefit others, understanding that their contributions can make a difference.