SuitabookThe dark horse
Marcus Sedgwick
- Reading
- Try the opening together or check in after the early conflict is introduced. Let the reader set the pace, and pause to talk about how the story handles danger or Mouse’s mystery if either prompts questions.
- Themes
- Leadership and responsibility: Sigurd has risen to power as chief and leads the Storn in resisting invaders. The plot places a young leader under pressure to protect his people.
- Mouse’s identity and belonging: Sigurd rescues Mouse, who is adopted into his family; the story later reveals a shocking truth about her identity. Her mysterious past links family relationships with the larger legend and conflict.
- Worth knowing
- War, invasion and betrayal are part of the plot, alongside a legend described as terrifying. A reader who finds conflict or ominous fantasy unsettling may appreciate knowing these elements are present.