The Ghosts of Rancho Espanto
on Goodreads (331)
What’s inside...
A new middle grade contemporary fantasy from Adrianna Cuevas, author of the Pura Belpré Honor Book The Total Eclipse of Nestor Lopez. The story follows Cuban American boy Rafa, who is sent to work on a ranch in New Mexico as punishment for a school prank. At the ranch, Rafa encounters a mystery involving inexplicable events that require him to uncover secrets and confront truths about himself. With the help of new friends, Rafa navigates this adventure with humor and learns important life lessons.
Age
8-12
Length
304 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Rafa Fuentes
Dolly
Discussion points
What do you think the ghosts in Rancho Espanto represent or symbolize?
How do the characters' reactions to the ghosts change throughout the story, and what does that tell us about them?
If you were in the story, how would you feel about the ghosts? Would you be scared, excited, or something else?
What lessons do you think the book is trying to teach about fear and bravery?
Can you think of a time when you had to be brave like the characters in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions to invite your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book. This helps in understanding their perspective and emotional insights.
Discuss personal experiences related to themes in the book such as overcoming fear or dealing with the unknown, making the conversation more relatable and engaging.
Encourage your child to imagine alternate scenarios or endings to the story to foster creativity and deeper engagement with the storyline.
Highlight the motivations and growth of characters throughout the book to help your child grasp complex character developments and moral lessons.
Reinforce the messages of courage and friendship found in the book through personal anecdotes or family stories that share similar values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: The protagonist confronts the mysterious happenings in the Rancho Espanto, showcasing bravery despite being afraid.
Real-World Application: Children learn to handle their fears and understand that facing challenges can lead to personal growth and overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity and inquiry
Explanation: Through their adventures, the characters delve into the history and secrets of the ranch, using their curiosity as a tool to solve mysteries.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions, seek out answers, and engage in active learning, both academically and socially.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: The characters work together to uncover the secrets of the ranch, demonstrating how collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the effectiveness of working with others to achieve common goals and solve problems.
Example Lesson: Respect for history and culture
Explanation: The story highlights the rich history of Rancho Espanto and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
Real-World Application: Instills a sense of respect and appreciation for different cultures and histories, promoting inclusivity and cultural awareness.