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It Came from Beneath the Sink!

#30 of 55 in Goosebumps Series

3.58
on Goodreads (8,620)

What’s inside...

Kat and her brother, Daniel, are fortunate to move into a spacious new house, complete with multiple rooms, balconies, and a large lawn. However, their luck takes a dark turn when they discover a sinister presence lurking in the house. This malevolent entity is always on the move, observing, and biding its time, originating from a mysterious source beneath the kitchen sink.
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

9-12

Length

144 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Kat Merton
Daniel Merton
The Grool
Carlo
Katrina "Kat" Merton

Discussion points

How did Kat and Daniel's feelings about the sponge change throughout the story, and why do you think that happened?
What would you do if you found something strange like the sponge, and how would you handle it?
Can you think of a time when you were scared like the characters, and how did you overcome that fear?
What do you think is the main message of the story, and why is it important?
How did teamwork help the characters in the book, and can you share an example from your own life where working together helped solve a problem?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by asking your child to summarize the story in their own words, which can help them organize their thoughts and deepen their understanding. Encourage empathy by discussing how Kat and Daniel might have felt at different points in the story. Relate the book’s themes to real-life events in your child’s life to make the discussion more relevant and engaging. Praise your child for their insights and ideas during the conversation to boost their confidence and encourage further discussion.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Courage in the face of fear
Explanation: The protagonist faces and overcomes the frightening discovery of a malevolent sponge under the sink, showcasing bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn to confront their fears and challenges, understanding that courage can help them overcome obstacles in real life.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The characters take ownership of the dangerous situation caused by the sponge, learning the importance of addressing issues directly.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of taking responsibility for their actions and the situations they find themselves in, even when facing unexpected problems.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The protagonist and her brother work together to find a way to stop the sponge’s negative effects, demonstrating critical thinking.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think critically and collaborate to solve problems, skills that are vital in academic and social settings.
Example Lesson: The impact of superstition
Explanation: The book explores how superstitions can drive people’s actions and create fear.
Real-World Application: Children learn to question irrational beliefs and distinguish between reality and superstition, promoting rational thinking.
Example Lesson: Family support
Explanation: Throughout the ordeal with the sponge, family members support each other, highlighting the importance of a supportive family unit.
Real-World Application: Reinforces the concept that family is crucial during troubling times and that mutual support can help overcome fears and difficulties.