The Web Trap Education Guide
The Mauled Mage is a timely, thought-provoking novel that belongs in every middle school library. Casper Pieters masterfully weaves a gripping adventure with real-world issues that today’s students face—cyberbullying, empathy, and the ethical use of technology.
As a teacher, I found this book to be an exceptional springboard for discussion. Through the eyes of Beam, Bindi, and their friends, students are able to safely explore sensitive topics that might otherwise feel too personal or uncomfortable to bring up. The blend of fantasy and realism allows readers to think critically about digital behavior while still being swept up in a thrilling story.
The language, pacing, and relatable characters make The Mauled Mage perfectly suited to middle-grade classrooms. Its companion Education Guide deepens the impact, offering guided questions and creative activities that prompt reflection, teamwork, and problem-solving. I’ve seen students open up about online experiences in ways they never would in a direct lesson.
More than just a story about cyberbullying, The Mauled Mage is a story about courage, compassion, and accountability. It empowers young readers to take ownership of their digital choices and reminds educators that storytelling remains one of the most powerful teaching tools we have.
A must-read for classrooms and libraries committed to building empathy and digital resilience in the next generation.
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“The Web Trap Education Guide has become one of the most valuable tools in our school library’s digital literacy program. It provides an engaging and age-appropriate way to help children explore technology, empathy, and friendship through the story of Bindi and Beam. As a librarian, I’ve found this guide incredibly useful in small-group reading sessions and lunchtime clubs. The chapter-aligned questions spark rich discussion, encouraging even quiet students to share their thoughts about friendship, fairness, and responsible technology use. The zero-tech creative activities are a huge hit—they get students thinking critically and expressing big ideas through drama, art, and teamwork rather than screens. What I love most is how naturally it opens conversations about tricky topics like online safety, exclusion, and kindness. Discussing these issues through the characters makes the lessons feel personal, but never confronting. The Guide isn’t just a teaching resource—it’s a bridge between story and real-world learning, helping young readers become thoughtful, compassionate digital citizens.”
- 186 pages
- Paperback
- 6in × 9in
- Black & White