Skandar and the Unicorn Thief

Which element would be your affinity element? Why do you believe that? Use information from the book and outside sources about the elemental meanings to explain your choice.

The Weaver arguably has good intentions but uses poor methods to execute her plan. If she really wants to create a world in which anyone can bond with a unicorn, how might she have chosen to achieve this goal in a constructive way? Identify three actions that she could perform and explain why each one would serve her goals better than the choices she actually makes.

Which do you believe is stronger: the family you choose or the family you’re born with? Explain with examples from the book and your own life.

Write a journal entry detailing what you imagine your first day as a unicorn rider would be like. Describe your unicorn, talk about your experience in the Divide, and include anything else that would stand out to you about your experience entering the Eyrie with Skandar and his friends.

The Weaver justifies taking the non-riders’ free will and autonomy because they willingly choose to side with her. Similarly, Skandar must also submit to the will and rules of others as he learns to ride his own unicorn. How does Skandar push back against these various restrictions and exercise his own free will? Use examples from the novel to support your analysis.

Imagine that you are a unicorn rider when the Commodore of Chaos and the Silver Circle first outlaw spirit wielding. Write a response to their decision. Do you believe that they have made the right choice? Why or why not? What other options may have been available to them?

Draw a diagram that highlights the various connections between yourself and all the people you consider to be part of your family. Detail the type of relationship you have with each person and what the overall dynamic is. Remember, family can extend beyond blood to those you choose to associate with.

Write about the most difficult secret you ever had to keep. How did carrying that secret affect you? How did it feel when you could expose that secret rather than keeping it? Compare your experience with Skandar’s own feelings about letting go of his secrets. How are your reactions similar, and how do they differ?