Grave Mercy
Written by Robin LaFevers

Summary:
Seventeen-year-old Ismae avoids an arranged marriage by making a place for herself at the convent of St. Mortin, where she learns of her unique gifts and must determine whether she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death.

Primary Source Pairing:
Use the map included in the book for students to get their bearings as they follow the travels of Ismae as she delivers Death’s vengeance.

Questions for Discussion:

• Describe what you see.
• What do you notice first?
• What size and shape is the map?
• What graphical elements do you see?
• What on the map looks strange or unfamiliar?
• Describe anything that looks like it does not belong on a map.
• What place or places does the map show?
• How does this map connect to your visualization of the events in the story?

Credits:
Book Cover and Summary: Follett
Map of the land: Robin LaFevers