Piano Lessons Can Be Murder
#13 of 55 in Goosebumps Series
on Goodreads (9,163)
What’s inside...
The story follows a boy named Jerry whose family moves into a new house. Jerry discovers a piano in the attic and starts taking lessons, but strange and scary things start happening. It turns out that the piano might be haunted. Convinced that there is something creepy about his new piano teacher, Jerry soon hears terrifying stories about Dr. Shreek's music school and students who never completed their lesson alive.
Character compass
Jerry Hawkins
Mr. Hawkins
The Ghost
Mr. Toggle
Dr. Shreek
Discussion points
What did you think about Jerry finding the piano teacher's behavior strange? How would you react in a similar situation?
How do the spooky elements in the story make you feel? Do they add excitement or fear, and why?
Jerry makes several decisions throughout the book. Which ones do you agree or disagree with, and why?
How does friendship play a role in this story? What can we learn about trusting our friends from Jerry's experiences?
If you were to write another chapter to the story, what would happen next?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by sharing your own thoughts on the book to create an open and non-judgmental atmosphere.
Ask open-ended questions that require more than a yes or no answer to encourage your child to think critically about the story and their feelings.
Relate the situations in the book to real-life experiences to help your child connect with the themes and understand the characters' actions.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or plot twists to foster creativity and deeper engagement with the text.
Discuss the emotions portrayed in the story and ask your child how they would feel in similar situations to build empathy and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in learning new skills
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges in learning to play the piano but continues to practice and improve.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of persisting with difficult tasks whether it's learning an instrument, a new sport, or mastering a new academic topic.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: The character encounters spooky scenarios but learns to overcome his fears to solve the mystery.
Real-World Application: This illustrates the value of bravery to children, empowering them to confront their own fears, such as trying new activities or addressing conflicts.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity and questioning
Explanation: The young protagonist's inquisitive nature leads to important discoveries that help resolve the mysteries he encounters.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek out answers, which aids in their cognitive development and critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Understanding the consequences of dishonesty
Explanation: Characters in the book who engage in deceit end up facing negative consequences, teaching the importance of honesty.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of being truthful and the potential negative outcomes of deception in their daily interactions and relationships.