The Accidental Afterlife of Thomas Marsden
on Goodreads (800)
What’s inside...
Grave robbing is a messy business. A bad business. And for Thomas Marsden, on what was an unremarkable spring night in London, it becomes a very spooky business. For lying in an unmarked grave and half covered with dirt is a boy the spitting image of Thomas himself. This is only the first clue that something very strange is happening. Others follow, but it is a fortune teller’s frightened screams that lead Thomas into a strange world of spiritualists, death and faery folk. Faery folk with whom Thomas’s life is bizarrely linked. Faery folk who need his help. Desperate to unearth the truth about himself and where he comes from, Thomas is about to discover magic, and ritual, and that sometimes, just sometimes, the things that make a boy ordinary are what make him extraordinary.
Age
8-12
Length
247 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Thomas Marsden
Mr. Marsden
Discussion points
What do you think Thomas felt when he discovered another him? How would you feel in that situation?
Thomas goes on a quite unexpected journey. What do you think this story tells us about dealing with unexpected events?
How do the characters in the book show bravery and kindness? Can you think of examples from your own life where you showed similar traits?
Why is it important to solve mysteries or understand the unknown, like Thomas tried to do with his own mystery?
What lessons can we learn about friendship and loyalty from Thomas’s interactions with the characters he meets in the afterlife?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Thomas's shoes while discussing his feelings and reactions throughout the book, which can help them understand and express their own emotions.
Discuss the historical and fantasy elements of the story. Help your child differentiate between the two and explore how history and fantasy can be interwoven creatively.
Ask your child to think about what they would do differently if they were in Thomas's place, which can encourage problem-solving and decisive thinking.
Highlight the moral dilemmas and choices Thomas faces to discuss the importance of decision-making and the consequences that come with it.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s daily life, such as dealing with the unexpected, understanding unforeseen challenges, and the value of true friendship.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-discovery
Explanation: The protagonist, Thomas Marsden, embarks on a journey that leads him to uncover hidden truths about his past and identity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of exploring and understanding their own identity, encouraging self-awareness and confidence.
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: Throughout the story, Thomas faces numerous challenges and shows bravery when confronting them.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of facing their fears and overcoming obstacles, empowering them to tackle difficult situations in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The significance of choices
Explanation: Thomas makes several key decisions that affect the course of his adventure, illustrating the impact of choices.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to think critically about the consequences of their decisions and understand the importance of making thoughtful choices.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of family and heritage
Explanation: As Thomas learns more about his lineage, he grows to value his heritage and family connections deeper.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and appreciate their own family history and cultural background, enhancing their personal identity and values.
Example Lesson: Compassion and empathy
Explanation: Thomas shows kindness to the spirits he encounters, which helps him in his quest.
Real-World Application: This highlights the importance of empathy and treating others with kindness, which can foster better social interactions and relationships in children’s lives.