#20 in Goosebumps Series
Phantom of the Auditorium
on Goodreads (8,261)
What’s inside...
Thinking her friend Zeke is getting too much into his phantom role in the school play, Brooke becomes alarmed when scary things start happening backstage and wonders if a real phantom is out to stop the show.
Discussion points
What did you think about the mystery in the story? How did it make you feel as it was being solved?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
How would you have reacted if you were in Brooke or Zeke's situation when they discovered the Phantom?
What do you think is the importance of bravery showcased in the book?
If you could change one thing about the ending, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book’s suspenseful moments to explore their understanding of fear and courage.
Discuss the characters’ actions and decisions to foster empathy and reasoning skills.
Link the story’s themes to real-life situations your child might face to enhance their problem-solving abilities.
Prompt your child to imagine alternative story endings or twists to inspire creativity and critical thinking.
Use the mystery and suspense in the book as a tool to emphasize the importance of perseverance and curiosity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of fear
Explanation: The protagonist confronts mysterious and frightening events while preparing for a school play, displaying bravery despite their fear.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their fears and handle nervous situations with courage, whether it's dealing with stage fright or trying new activities.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The characters must work together to solve the mystery of the haunted auditorium, showcasing the importance of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Promotes the value of working with others to achieve common goals, essential for group projects and team sports.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Characters take on the responsibility of putting on a school play while dealing with unexpected challenges, demonstrating accountability.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of fulfilling commitments and the impact of their roles within a group.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the young protagonists employ critical thinking to solve the mystery, emphasizing the importance of logical reasoning.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think critically and creatively when faced with puzzles or difficult situations in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, the characters persist in their efforts to stage the play and uncover the truth, illustrating determination.
Real-World Application: Instills the value of continuing to strive towards a goal, no matter the obstacles, which can be applied in academic and personal endeavors.