Ophie’s Ghosts
on Goodreads (3,972)
What’s inside...
The New York Times bestselling author of Dread Nation makes her middle grade debut with a sweeping tale of the ghosts of our past that won't stay buried, starring an unforgettable girl named Ophie. Ophelia Harrison used to live in a small house in the Georgia countryside. But that was before the night in November 1922, and the cruel act that took her home and her father from her. Which was the same night that Ophie learned she can see ghosts. Now Ophie and her mother are living in Pittsburgh with relatives they barely know. In the hopes of earning enough money to get their own place, Mama has gotten Ophie a job as a maid in the same old manor house where she works. Daffodil Manor, like the wealthy Caruthers family who owns it, is haunted by memories and prejudices of the past--and, as Ophie discovers, ghosts as well. Ghosts who have their own loves and hatreds and desires, ghosts who have wronged others and ghosts who have themselves been wronged. And as Ophie forms a friendship with one spirit whose life ended suddenly and unjustly, she wonders if she might be able to help--even as she comes to realize that Daffodil Manor may hold more secrets than she bargained for. Winner of the 2001 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction
Age
8-12
Length
336 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ophie Harrison
Clara
Mrs. Harrison
Mrs. Caruthers
Discussion points
How do you think Ophie felt when she discovered she could see ghosts? How would you feel in her situation?
Ophie encounters many challenges in the story. Which challenge do you think was the hardest for her, and why?
The theme of courage is very strong in this book. Can you think of a time when you had to be brave like Ophie?
How do the ghosts in the story help Ophie learn about her family’s past? Why do you think knowing our history is important?
If you could talk to any character from the book, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and its characters, supporting them to draw parallels with their own experiences.
Discuss the historical context of the story, briefly explaining the significance of the era in which it is set to deepen understanding.
Use the book’s themes to have broader conversations about courage, family, and history, helping your child connect these ideas to the world around them.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next after certain events in the book to foster critical thinking and engagement with the plot.
Celebrate your child’s responses, even if they interpret the story differently, to encourage diverse thinking and open-mindedness.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience and courage
Explanation: Ophie learns to confront and navigate the challenges of being able to see ghosts, showcasing her bravery in dealing with the unknown and managing her fears.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and setbacks with courage, understanding that it is normal to feel scared but also recognizing the importance of overcoming those fears.
Example Lesson: Understanding and embracing diversity
Explanation: Set in the post-war era, the story exposes Ophie to diverse cultural backgrounds and historical contexts, helping her—and young readers—understand different perspectives and social dynamics.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be more accepting and appreciative of people from different backgrounds and histories, fostering a sense of empathy and inclusivity.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity and learning
Explanation: Ophie's journey is filled with learning about her abilities and the history tied to the ghosts she interacts with. Her inquisitive nature drives the plot and her personal development.
Real-World Application: Children are reminded of the benefits of being curious and passionate about learning, which can lead to personal growth and a better understanding of the world around them.
Example Lesson: The strength in family and community bonds
Explanation: Throughout her adventures, the support from her mother and new friends plays a crucial role in Ophie's ability to come to terms with her abilities and the events unfolding around her.
Real-World Application: This teaches children about the importance of having a support system and relying on family and friends during challenging times, reinforcing the value of strong community ties.