How did the historical events (like Henry VIII's quarrel) affect ordinary people in the story?

This is a discussion prompt for A Cold Wind Blowing by Barbara Willard. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What challenges did the silent girl face, and how did the family help her feel safe and loved?

This is a discussion prompt for A Cold Wind Blowing by Barbara Willard. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

If you met someone who couldn't remember their past, how would you try to help them?

This is a discussion prompt for A Cold Wind Blowing by Barbara Willard. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What do you think the title "A Cold Wind Blowing" means in the context of the story?

This is a discussion prompt for A Cold Wind Blowing by Barbara Willard. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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A Cold Wind Blowing

Name: A Cold Wind Blowing
ISBN: 9780140307269

by Barbara Willard

During the Reformation, a young man cares for a mysterious girl as Henry VIII’s decrees disrupt their lives in this moving historical drama.

About This Book

Henry VIII's quarrel with the Pope seems remote from a young Englishman's life until his uncle finds himself guardian to a mysterious silent girl who seems to remember nothing.

Concepts

Loneliness & Belonging Empathy & Kindness Love & Family Resilience & Perseverance Self-Confidence & Identity Curiosity & Wonder Adoption & Foster Care Being Different Making Friends History Mystery

Heads up, parents

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peril_danger

Wonderlit Review

A Cold Wind Blowing offers a quiet, character-driven historical fiction experience set in Tudor England. The narrative follows a young Englishman whose family, specifically his uncle, takes in a mysterious, silent girl who has lost her memory. The core of the story revolves around the family's compassionate efforts to care for her, help her regain her past, and integrate her into their lives, all while the distant political rumblings of Henry VIII's quarrel with the Pope provide a subtle, atmospheric backdrop. The sensitive topic of a child's trauma and loss of memory is handled with gentle care, focusing on the healing power of kindness and acceptance rather than explicit detail. The historical context is woven in naturally, making it accessible without being overwhelming for young readers. The emotional arc begins with a sense of vulnerability and mystery surrounding the girl, gradually unfolding into a heartwarming journey of belonging and finding a new home. This book is specifically for children who enjoy historical settings, particularly the Tudor period, and those who appreciate gentle mysteries centered on human connection. It's an excellent choice for a child curious about how historical events might have impacted everyday lives, or for one who needs a story modeling empathy and the importance of welcoming others. A parent might reach for this when their child is exploring themes of family, adoption, or the challenges of being different. Parents might consider briefly introducing the historical context of Henry VIII's reign to help older children fully appreciate the 'cold wind' of change alluded to in the title. Younger children (ages 4-7, as a read-aloud) will connect with the girl's emotional journey and the family's kindness, while older children (8-11, for independent reading) will better grasp the historical nuances and the slow unraveling of the mystery. What sets this book apart is its ability to blend a deeply personal story of a foundling with an authentic historical setting, offering an intimate, rather than grand, perspective on history.