Leo the Ghost and the Halloween of Helping
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Leo is no ordinary ghost. While the other spirits love to frighten and haunt humans each Halloween, Leo wonders why he isn't like the other ghosts. When October 31st arrives, Leo sits in a tree wondering why he isn't like other ghosts because he wants to help people. He meets Mia and she becomes his helper and they spend Halloween helping people. He and Mia help people with large and small tasks and as they go through the town helping, the word spreads. But not everyone appreciates Leo's efforts. The other ghosts feel he is ruining their favorite frightful holiday. And a particularly mean specter named Frankie hatches a plan to stop Leo before he ruins Halloween forever. But Leo remains determined to make this Halloween one filled with help instead of fear. In this heartwarming story, young readers will learn the importance of kindness and compassion. And they'll see how one selfless spirit can inspire a whole community. Leo the Ghost and the Halloween of Helping delivers spirited fun while teaching that helping others can be the greatest treat of all.
Age
3-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Leo the Ghost wanted to help during Halloween?
How did Leo’s actions show kindness to others?
What would you have done if you were in Leo's place?
How did the other characters react to Leo’s help?
Can we think of a time when we helped someone like Leo did?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing, highlight the importance of empathy by relating Leo’s actions to personal experiences of helping others.
Encourage your child to think about the feelings of the characters by asking how they would feel in similar situations.
Praise your child for thoughtful responses and insights, reinforcing their understanding and interest in the themes of helping and friendship.
Use examples from the book to discuss the impact of small acts of kindness, showing how they can create positive changes.
Create a supportive environment where your child feels comfortable expressing their thoughts and opinions about the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Leo the Ghost teaches children about empathy as he helps his friends prepare for Halloween despite his own fears of being misunderstood due to his ghostly appearance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and appreciate the feelings and perspectives of others, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment at school and at home.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the book, Leo collaborates with other characters to organize the Halloween event, demonstrating the importance of working together to achieve a common goal.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to participate in group activities and projects, enhancing their ability to cooperate and communicate effectively with peers.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Leo confronts his fear of rejection and misunderstanding from others due to his differences. His bravery in overcoming these fears is a central theme.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of facing their own fears and challenges, whether it’s trying new activities or standing up for themselves and others.
Example Lesson: Importance of helping others
Explanation: Leo goes out of his way to help his friends prepare for Halloween, showing that helping others is rewarding and builds strong relationships.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to help out at home, in school, and in their communities, learning that their actions can have a positive impact on others.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of differences
Explanation: The story highlights how Leo’s unique qualities as a ghost are eventually celebrated by his friends, promoting a message of acceptance.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate the diversity in their own classrooms and neighborhoods, promoting a more accepting and harmonious environment.