Go Hunt Me
What’s inside...
For Dracula lovers and fans of Diana Urban’s All Your Twisted Secrets, this spine-tingling thriller follows seven horror buffs as their dream trip to a remote Romanian castle turns into a nightmare when they begin to be killed one by one. Alex Rush is ready for the trip of a lifetime. She and her friends have made some creepily awesome films together throughout high school, so with only a few months left before they go their separate ways for college, they’re determined to make the best one yet: an epic short film that reimagines the story of Dracula, filmed on location at a remote castle in Romania. But when they get there, it’s not quite the majestic setting they planned for. Menacing weapons line the walls, the twisted halls are easy to get lost in, and with no connection to the outside world, the group is unexpectedly off the grid. After just a few hours spent under its roof, Alex and her friends have no trouble imagining how this dark, terrifying castle inspired one of the most enduring horror novels of all time. Only soon they no longer have to use their imaginations to understand the location’s terrifying history—just as they get the film’s first shot rolling, one of Alex’s friends disappears, and she’s nearly certain she saw a cloaked stranger lurking in the shadows. As more members of the group begin to meet an untimely demise, Alex is desperate to stop the bloodshed, even if it means facing a monster she never thought would be let loose.
Discussion points
What do you think are the main themes of this book and why do they matter?
How did the characters' actions affect the outcome of the story?
Did any parts of the story make you feel strongly? What were they and why?
If you could ask the author one question about the book, what would it be?
How might the story be different if it took place in another setting?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts about the book's theme, which can open up a more relaxed conversation.
Encourage your child to think about how the characters' decisions relate to their own life choices.
Normalize sharing different emotional reactions to various parts of the book to deepen understanding of personal and moral development.
Ask your child to imagine different scenarios or endings to enhance creative thinking.
Utilize pauses after questions to give your child time to formulate thoughtful responses.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The characters in 'Go Hunt Me' must work together to overcome mysterious and challenging circumstances on their adventure, demonstrating the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply the value of teamwork in school projects or in sports, learning to collaborate and share ideas to achieve a common goal.
Example Lesson: Courage and Facing Fears
Explanation: As the characters encounter various unexpected and frightening situations, they learn to face their fears and show courage, which is pivotal to their survival and growth throughout the book.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their own fears, whether it’s trying out for a new sport, speaking in front of their class, or standing up to a bully.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout 'Go Hunt Me', the protagonists are forced to solve complex problems to advance in their journey, highlighting critical thinking and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: Kids can use problem-solving skills in real life when dealing with conflicts, puzzles, and in making wise decisions when unforeseen circumstances occur.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, the characters continue to push forward, showcasing resilience and perseverance.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of perseverance in challenging times, such as persisting with difficult subjects in school or continuing to participate in activities even when they feel like giving up.