#32 in Goosebumps Series
The Barking Ghost
on Goodreads (6,282)
What’s inside...
Cooper, a nervous newcomer to the town, and his friend, Margaret, are targeted by two evil dogs who cast a spell to switch bodies with the children as a way of wreaking further havoc.
Discussion points
What would you do if you were in the shoes of the main characters, Cooper and Fergie?
How did Cooper and Fergie's feelings change throughout the story?
What do you think the barking ghost represents in this story?
How do the characters handle fear and what can we learn from them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think beyond the story by asking them how they might feel in similar situations.
Discuss the concept of bravery and fear, comparing personal experiences with those of the characters.
Explore the importance of friendship and teamwork as depicted in the book.
Use the suspenseful moments in the story to discuss handling and overcoming fears in a healthy manner.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: In 'The Barking Ghost', the characters face supernatural challenges that initially frighten them. Through their journey, they demonstrate bravery by confronting and overcoming their fears.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing their own fears, whether it’s trying out for a team, standing up to a bully, or sleeping alone in the dark. This helps in building their confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The protagonists in the story use their wits and teamwork to solve the mystery of the barking ghost, showcasing critical thinking and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and solve problems they encounter, such as working out a difficult homework question or resolving a dispute with a peer.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Characters learn to understand and empathize with others who are different from themselves, including the misunderstood ghost dogs.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of empathy by encouraging them to consider other people's feelings and perspectives, which can lead to more harmonious interactions at school and at home.