Ghost Town at Sundown
#10 in Magic Tree House Series
What’s inside...
In Ghost Town at Sundown, Jack and Annie are transported by the Magic Tree House to the Wild West, where they encounter a ghost town. There, they meet a cowboy named Slim and face various dangers including horse thieves, a lost colt, rattlesnakes, a deadly snake, a black widow spider, and bumbling robbers. Amidst their adventure, they wonder if the town is haunted and seek to solve the next Tree House Riddle, with the answer potentially linked to a ghost. This installment of the Magic Tree House series provides a thrilling time-travel adventure that is perfect for readers aged 6-9 who are beginning to read chapter books, as well as more challenging adventures in the Merlin Missions for experienced readers aged 7-10.
Character compass
Jack
Annie
Slim Cooley
Discussion points
What do you think life was like in a Wild West town like the one Jack and Annie visited in 'Ghost Town at Sundown'?
How did Jack and Annie feel when they met Slim? What would you do if you were in their shoes?
What lessons do you think Jack and Annie learned during their adventure? How can those lessons apply to our lives today?
If you could help the residents of the ghost town solve one of their problems, which one would it be and why?
Imagine you had the ability to travel anywhere in time like Jack and Annie. Where would you go and what would you like to discover?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the characters' shoes, fostering a deeper connection with the story and its themes.
Discuss historical aspects of the book to provide a better understanding of the era, enriching the reading experience.
Highlight the moral lessons within the story, and ask your child how these lessons might influence their own choices.
Utilize the book's adventures to inspire curiosity about history, geography, and different cultures.
Promote empathy by discussing the characters’ emotions and reactions throughout the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of fear
Explanation: In 'Ghost Town at Sundown,' the characters demonstrate bravery as they explore a spooky, deserted town and encounter various challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and tackle new challenges, whether it’s trying out a new activity or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The characters often work together to solve mysteries and overcome obstacles, showing how teamwork can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to collaborate with others, be it in school projects or in playing sports, fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: The protagonists’ adventure is driven by their desire to learn more about the ghost town, demonstrating the value of curiosity and continuous learning.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their own interests and seek knowledge, whether through reading, asking questions, or experimenting.
Example Lesson: Resilience in problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters encounter various challenges that they need to think creatively to resolve, showcasing resilience.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persevere through difficulties they face in their lives, using creative problem-solving and resilience.
Example Lesson: Understanding history and culture
Explanation: The setting of the ghost town provides a backdrop for historical and cultural education about the Old West.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to explore and respect different historical eras and cultures, enhancing their educational breadth and depth.