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READING GUIDE

The Firework-maker's Daughter

by Philip Pullman · Fireworks, Elephants, and Brave Hearts

About the book

Set on the slopes of Mount Merapi, this story follows Lila, the daughter of a firework-maker, who dreams of following in her father's footsteps. When she learns she must complete a dangerous quest to earn her place, she sets off with her friend Chulak and a talking elephant named Hamlet. The journey tests her courage and cleverness in a world of magic and mystery.

Why kids love it

Philip Pullman's tale celebrates determination and the importance of believing in oneself. Young readers will be captivated by Lila's adventurous spirit and the book's vivid imagery. It offers a gentle introduction to themes of independence and responsibility.

Step into the world of The Firework-maker's Daughter

Village of the Firework-Makers

Little houses with red-tiled roofs cluster around a dusty square. The air smells of sulphur and jasmine, and you can hear the crackle of sparklers being tested. Mount Merapi looms over everything, its peak lost in a cloud of grey smoke.

Lalchand's Workshop

Shelves crammed with paper tubes, pots of gunpowder, and jars of strange salts crowd the little room. A workbench is scattered with half-finished fireworks and a pair of tongs. The floor is dusted with black powder.

Jungle Path

A narrow track winds through giant ferns and tangled vines. Parrots shriek in the canopy, and the air is warm and damp. The path climbs steeply towards the smoking mountain.

Sample questions

Here is the kind of thinking The Firework-maker's Daughter asks for — drawn from the actual quiz:

  1. What is the name of the firework-maker's daughter?

    Lila is the brave and determined daughter of the famous firework-maker Lalchand.

  2. Who is Lila's father?

    Lalchand is the skilled firework-maker and Lila's father.

  3. What is the name of Lila's best friend?

    Chulak is Lila's loyal friend who helps her on her journey.

Words to know

firework-maker
A person who creates fireworks, which are explosive devices used for displays.
apprentice
Someone who learns a trade or skill from an experienced person.
quest
A long and difficult search for something important.
elephant
A very large animal with a long trunk and big ears.
volcano
A mountain that can erupt with hot lava and ash.
courage
The ability to do something even when you are afraid.
determination
The quality of continuing to try to do something despite difficulties.

Talk about it

  1. Why does Lila want to become a firework-maker, and what obstacles does she face?

  2. How does Lila's friendship with Chulak help her on her journey?

  3. What role does Hamlet the elephant play in the story, and what does he represent?

  4. What does Lila learn about herself during her quest?

  5. How does the setting on Mount Merapi affect the events of the story?

Play the full quiz

Answer fast, earn coins, and follow your student journey through The Firework-maker's Daughter.

Play The Firework-maker's Daughter