Ghost Writer
on Goodreads (30)
What’s inside...
Take a boy with a reading problem, a protective mother, and a village primary school set in its original 19th century buildings and there all the ingredients for an accessible modern ghost story. Frankie wants to stay in this school that he likes, and hide from his mother that there is a bullying teacher who thinks that 'dyslexic' is another name for lazy. Who is the ghost boy who writes 'Get her' on the blackboard in the original classroom - and what is his connection with the cupboard at the back? What really happened in the influenza epidemic that swept the village 70 years before - and who died in it?
Age
9-11
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Joe
Harriet
Discussion points
How did you feel about the way the main character handled their challenges?
What do you think the ghost represents in the story?
Can you think of a time when you had to solve a problem in a creative way like the characters did?
What did you learn about friendship from this book?
If you could ask the author one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use pauses after each question to give your child time to think and answer thoughtfully.
Relate the themes of the book to your child's own experiences to make the conversation more meaningful.
Encourage your child to ask questions about the story or characters to foster curiosity.
Show interest and enthusiasm for your child’s responses to build their confidence in expressing their thoughts.
Discuss the moral or lesson that can be learned from the story to reinforce values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In 'Ghost Writer,' the protagonist learns the value of being truthful, especially when it leads to unexpected friendships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by understanding that honesty builds trust and strengthens relationships with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: The character overcomes fears by confronting the mysterious aspects of the ghost, teaching children that bravery can lead to new discoveries and personal growth.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to face their own fears, whether it's trying out for a sports team or speaking in front of the class, demonstrating that courage can result in positive outcomes.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through interactions with the ghost, the protagonist learns to understand and empathize with experiences different from their own.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children learn to be more considerate and understanding towards people who might seem different from them, fostering a more inclusive environment at school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: The power of curiosity and learning
Explanation: The protagonist's quest to learn more about the ghost leads to a journey filled with learning and discovery.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to seek knowledge and explore the world around them, promoting lifelong learning and curiosity.
Example Lesson: Resilience in overcoming obstacles
Explanation: The book shows how the protagonist persists in solving the mystery despite challenges, showcasing the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist through their own challenges, whether in academics, sports, or personal goals, understanding that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles.