The Wandering Pirate Ship (Children of the Light)
#1 of 5 in Children of the Lamp Series
What’s inside...
Twelve year-old Lillian Bates struggles with her hatred towards her little brother and faces the possibility of losing him. Set in 1884 on a remote island lighthouse, Lillian embarks on a journey towards becoming more loving. Alongside her siblings and cousins, she investigates cryptic clues found on a weather-torn shipwreck, battles a gruff 'pirate' captain and his dubious crew, and receives help from three loving caretakers. Through humor, misunderstandings, and lively events, Lillian makes a crucial discovery about the importance of understanding her motivations. She realizes that love is a Fruit of the Spirit, meant for everyone, and learns to shine her unique light on those living in darkness. This realization transforms her hatred into love and marks the beginning of her spiritual growth, based on Galatians 5:22-23. This book is the first in a series exploring the Fruit of the Spirit through the lives of nine 'Children of the Light'.
Discussion points
What do you think the pirates are searching for on their journey?
How do the pirates change throughout their adventure?
What would you do if you were a member of the pirate crew?
Can you think of a time when teamwork helped you solve a problem like the pirates did?
What lesson do you think the pirates learned by the end of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show interest in your child's responses to promote open communication. Follow up their answers with 'Why do you think that?'
Pause during key moments in the story to ask predictive questions, encouraging your child to think ahead about the possible outcomes.
Relate the pirate’s adventures to experiences familiar to your child, such as working together on a family project, to make the themes more relevant.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and emotions about the story by asking how specific events or characters made them feel.
Discuss the moral lessons in the story and connect them to real-life scenarios, helping your child understand the importance of virtues like bravery, teamwork, and perseverance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of uncertainty
Explanation: The characters in 'The Wandering Pirate Ship' often find themselves in unfamiliar situations, yet they demonstrate bravery and a willingness to confront their fears.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace new experiences at school or in social settings, understanding that it's okay to feel uncertain but still act courageously.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the adventure, the characters must work together to navigate the mysterious seas and solve problems, highlighting how cooperation can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children the importance of collaborating with peers during group projects or team sports, fostering a spirit of unity and shared goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of perseverance
Explanation: When challenges arise, the crew members persist and push through difficulties, demonstrating that perseverance can lead to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson when dealing with academic challenges or learning new skills, teaching them that persistence is key to achieving their objectives.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: The crew of the pirate ship consists of characters from various backgrounds, showing children that diversity is valuable and enriching.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect people from different cultures and backgrounds, enhancing their social interactions and understanding of the world.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and leadership
Explanation: The captain of the ship takes responsibility for the welfare of the crew, highlighting the importance of leadership and accountability.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to take responsibility for their actions and to be leaders in their own lives, whether it's in family duties or in leading a school project.