About This Book
Sonya Hartnett's 'The Children of the King' is a captivating historical fiction novel set during World War II, following siblings Cecily and Jeremy, and a young refugee named May, as they are evacuated to rural England. While exploring, they stumble upon two enigmatic boys in a ruined castle, initiating a profound adventure that blurs the lines between history and fantasy. The book is lauded for its rich, lyrical language and its heartfelt examination of wartime hardships, offering a poignant yet hopeful narrative. It's an excellent choice for children interested in history, mystery, and stories that explore themes of displacement, belonging, and courage.
"Cecily and Jeremy have been sent to live with their Uncle Peregrine in the English countryside, safe from the war, along with a young refugee named May. But when Cecily and May find two mysterious boys hiding in the ruins of a nearby castle, an extraordinary adventure begins."--Publisher's web site. Three children have been sent to live in the countryside, safe from the war in London. When they find two boys hiding in a castle, the past and future come together to make an extraordinary adventure.
Discussion Prompts
1
How do Cecily, Jeremy, and May each cope with being evacuated from their homes during the war?
2
What do you think the mysterious boys represent, and how do they connect to the past and future?
3
How does the author use language to make the English countryside and the castle feel magical and mysterious?
4
What lessons can we learn about empathy and understanding from May's experience as a refugee?
5
If you could ask one of the characters a question, who would it be and what would you ask?
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