The Skull
OverDrive Read Series
What’s inside...
A #1 New York Times bestseller! Caldecott Medalist and New York Times best-selling author-illustrator Jon Klassen delivers a deliciously macabre treat for folktale fans. Jon Klassen's signature wry humor takes a turn for the ghostly in this thrilling retelling of a traditional Tyrolean folktale. In a big abandoned house, on a barren hill, lives a skull. A brave girl named Otilla has escaped from terrible danger and run away, and when she finds herself lost in the dark forest, the lonely house beckons. Her host, the skull, is afraid of something too, something that comes every night. Can brave Otilla save them both? Steeped in shadows and threaded with subtle wit—with rich, monochromatic artwork and an illuminating author's note—The Skull is as empowering as it is mysterious and foreboding.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-5
Length
106 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the skull represents in the story?
How did you feel when the main character interacted with the skull?
What do you think the skull would say if it could talk?
Can you think of a time when you discovered something unexpected? How did it make you feel?
What do you think the main character learned by the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the story to life; alter your tone and pace to match the narrative’s mood.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next in the story to keep them engaged and thinking ahead.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of the skull and describe their version of it, fostering creativity and comprehension.
Have your child relate themes or events from the book to their own experiences, which reinforces empathy and personal connection.
Discuss the emotions of the characters and relate them to real-life scenarios to deepen understanding and emotional intelligence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: The protagonist in 'The Skull' overcomes challenges that initially seem daunting, demonstrating bravery.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by tackling new activities or challenges at school with a positive attitude, learning that courage can lead to personal growth.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship
Explanation: Characters in the story support each other during difficult times, emphasizing the value of true friends.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to help and rely on their friends in real life, fostering strong, supportive relationships.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The characters in the book come across various problems that they solve using teamwork and creativity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to collaborate with others and think creatively to solve problems they encounter in school or at home.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: The story illustrates how the characters' actions, good or bad, have outcomes that affect them and others.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand the impact of their behavior and decisions on their surroundings, promoting responsibility.