What kind of character is Edric? What do you learn about him in the first chapter? What are the names of Edric?s dogs? Note: Beelzebub is a name for a devil, and Hecate was a Greek goddess associated with the underworld, night, and witchcraft Hecate was also a witch in Shakespeare?s Macbeth. Repeat it, then ask the children if they know what the real proverb is and why Edric?s version is funny.ĭiscussion topics for during/after reading: Note to volunteers: As you read the book, pause when you come to one of Edric?s mangled proverbs. What is an idiom? What is an example of a proverb? What are some idioms you know? One of the things that makes this story funny is the troll Edric?s misuse of common idioms and proverbs. What other stories have you read or heard that involve trolls? Are all trolls the same, or are there different kinds of trolls? The main characters at the beginning of this story are Edric, a troll, and Christian, a young boy. What are some of the characteristics of fantasy as a genre? Begin at chapter one and try to read at least through page 71.

This is a chapter book, but the text is not dense and it should read quickly. This blend of genres will appeal to a wide range of readers, and it's all great fun. Readers will be drawn into this world and be satisfied by the denouement. Quirky personalities and comic subplots give the story additional texture. This complex, fast-paced plot, a mixture of fantasy, romance, comedy, and coming-of-age novel, succeeds because these characters are compelling, well developed, and sympathetic.

When he learns that her life is in danger, he must find a way to save her and the kingdom. When he takes work at the castle, there is no way that Chris, a commoner, can tell Marigold who he is, and he can only stand by as she is to be married to an unsuitable suitor. She is headstrong but lonely, and when Chris contacts her by carrier pigeon (or p-mail), they become best friends. As the boy grows, he continues his interest in inventing and watches the princess in the castle across the river. Edric, a troll, finds him and gives him shelter but cannot make him go back home, and Chris grows up with Edric and his dogs as his family, guided by an etiquette book found in the forest and Edric's own wisdom. He has run away from home, determined to live on his own in the forest. Grade Level: 5th (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)Īs the cover proclaims, this story is truly 'part everything-but-the-kitchen-sink.' Readers first meet Chris when he is a strong-willed, clever child of six. Volunteers needed in May! Click here to sign up.

Once Upon a Marigold by Jean Ferris