All the Lovely Bad Ones
What’s inside...
In this eerie full-color graphic novel adaptation of one of award-winning author Mary Downing Hahn's most popular ghost stories, mischievous siblings Travis and Corey pretend their grandmother's Vermont inn is haunted and awaken real spirits. The siblings' supernatural pranks initially boost business by attracting tourists, but they soon realize that their games have disturbed dangerous, restless spirits. The story delves into whether Travis and Corey can resolve the chaos they have caused and lay the awakened spirits to rest.
Age
8-12
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Travis
Corey
Grandma
Miss Ada
Discussion points
What emotions did you feel when reading about the mischievous adventures of the protagonists? Why?
How did the characters' understanding of the ghosts change throughout the story?
What choices would you make if you were in the same situations as Travis and Corey?
What lessons do you think the characters learned by the end of the story?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in present times?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a calm and curious tone to encourage open-ended responses from your child.
Emphasize the feelings and moral dilemmas faced by the characters, linking them to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Ask your child to predict future events or alternate endings to enhance creative thinking.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the historical elements of the story and today’s world, fostering a deeper understanding.
Discuss the importance of understanding history and learning from past mistakes, as covered in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In 'All the Lovely Bad Ones,' the characters learn that dishonest actions, such as faking ghostly encounters, can lead to unintended negative consequences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the value of being truthful in their actions and words, helping them build trust with others in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: Understanding the impact of history
Explanation: The story delves into the historical background of the haunted inn, emphasizing how past events continue to influence the present.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to show interest in their own history and heritage, fostering a deeper respect for the past and how it shapes their environment.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: The protagonists confront their fears when dealing with the supernatural events at the inn.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to tackle their own fears and challenges, whether it's trying new activities or overcoming personal anxieties.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: As the plot unfolds, characters experience direct consequences from their choices, particularly when those choices involve interfering with supernatural forces.
Real-World Application: Kids learn that their choices have both positive and negative outcomes, teaching them to consider the consequences before acting.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through interactions with the spirits, characters begin to understand and empathize with their stories and motives.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop empathy towards others, learning to consider perspectives different from their own in their daily interactions.