Long Live the Pumpkin Queen: Disney Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas
The Nightmare Before Christmas Series
on Goodreads (24,826)
What’s inside...
In 'Long Live the Pumpkin Queen: Disney Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas,' Shea Ernshaw expands the beloved universe of Halloween Town with a focus on Sally, the rag doll who became the Pumpkin Queen after marrying Jack Skellington. The book delves into Sally's new responsibilities and her quest for self-discovery, as she navigates the challenges of her role. Striving to find her place as a leader, Sally embarks on an adventure that takes her beyond the borders of Halloween Town, encountering new friends and foes. As she faces personal doubts, external threats, and a mysterious prophecy, Sally's journey of growth and courage ultimately leads to a deeper understanding of herself and solidifies her place in the heart of her community. Jack and Sally are 'truly meant to be' ... or are they? Sally Skellington is the official, newly-minted Pumpkin Queen after a whirlwind courtship with her true love, Jack, who Sally adores with every inch of her fabric seams -- if only she could say the same for her new role as Queen of Halloween Town. Cast into the spotlight and tasked with all sorts of queenly duties, Sally can't help but wonder if all she's done is trade her captivity under Dr. FInkelstein for a different -- albeit gilded -- cage. But when Sally and Zero accidentally uncover a long-hidden doorway to an ancient realm called Dream Town in the forest Hinterlands, she'll unknowingly set into motion a chain of sinister events that put her future as Pumpkin Queen, and the future of Halloween Town itself, into jeopardy. Can Sally discover what it means to be true to herself and save the town she's learned to call home, or will her future turn into her worst... well, nightmare?
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
14-17
Length
304 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Sally Skellington
Jack Skellington
Sandman
Discussion points
What do you think Sally means when she says she wants to find her purpose beyond Halloween Town?
How do the characters show bravery and creativity throughout their challenges?
What would you do if you were in Sally's shoes and had to make a tough decision?
How do Sally's actions inspire those around her, and what can we learn from her journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences to Sally’s journey, drawing parallels between their daily challenges and the storyline.
Highlight Sally's character traits such as bravery and determination, asking your child how they could apply these qualities in their own life.
Discuss the importance of embracing differences among friends, using examples from Sally’s interactions with other characters in the book.
Point out the various outcomes that arise from characters' decisions, emphasizing the value of good judgment and thoughtful choices.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: The protagonist, Sally, navigates her new role as the Pumpkin Queen and discovers her unique voice and leadership style.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate their own uniqueness and feel confident in expressing themselves, fostering a strong sense of self.
Example Lesson: Importance of Resilience
Explanation: Sally faces various challenges in her adventure. Her perseverance in overcoming them underscores the narrative.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persist through difficulties they encounter, understanding that resilience is key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Value of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, Sally learns to collaborate with others in Halloween Town to solve problems and bring about positive changes.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to work cooperatively in group settings, appreciating the strengths and contributions of each team member.
Example Lesson: Accepting Change
Explanation: As Sally adjusts to her role as Pumpkin Queen, she teaches the value of embracing change and finding one’s path amidst new circumstances.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that change is a natural part of life and adapting to it can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.