Close Your Pretty Eyes
What’s inside...
Eleven-year-old Olivia has been in care since she was five and is now entering her nineteenth placement in a secluded centuries-old farmhouse. As she bonds with her new foster family, she discovers that the house was once a notorious baby farm where unwanted children were left to die. Convinced that the house is haunted, Olivia becomes desperate to save her new family from the ghosts. The danger is real, but is it a product of the house's dark past or the imagination of a disturbed child?
Age
11-12
Length
292 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Olivia
Harriet
Discussion points
How do you think Olivia felt when she moved to a new foster home? Have you ever felt the same way?
Why do you think it's important for Olivia to learn about her past? How does knowing her history shape who she is?
What role do the ghosts play in the story? Do you think they are symbolic of something else?
In what ways do Olivia's experiences make her a stronger person? Can you think of a time when a difficult situation made you stronger?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in the present day?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to put themselves in Olivia's shoes, discussing how they would feel in similar situations.
Discuss the historical elements of the story, connecting them to the personal history and heritage of your child to make it more relatable.
Use the supernatural elements to delve into discussions about fears and personal beliefs, asking your child what they would do if they were in Olivia’s position.
Highlight the resilience and growth of Olivia throughout the book, encouraging your child to share personal instances of growth through adversity.
Ask open-ended questions that allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, reinforcing the importance of open communication.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Olivia, faces numerous challenges and changes, yet she continually adapts and perseveres.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of resilience which can help them to navigate their own challenges and changes in life, such as moving to a new school or dealing with family issues.
Example Lesson: Understanding and compassion
Explanation: Olivia, through her interactions with others, learns to understand and feel compassion towards the spirits that haunt her, instead of just feeling fear.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to seek to understand people who may seem different or difficult at first, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic approach in their interactions.
Example Lesson: The impact of history on the present
Explanation: Through Olivia's experiences with the spirits, the book delves into historical events and their lingering effects, teaching about the continuous influence of history.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by showing interest in their own familial or cultural history, and understanding how past events shape current societal structures and personal behaviors.
Example Lesson: Courage to confront fears
Explanation: Olivia's journey includes facing the terrifying spirits and uncovering the truths behind their stories, which showcases her bravery.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears whether they're about the dark, starting a new activity, or standing up for themselves or others in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: The power of self-belief
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Olivia's belief in her ability to overcome her haunting and find a real home is central to the narrative.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to believe in themselves and their capabilities, which is crucial in fostering a positive self-image and achieving personal goals.