Vampires Dont Wear Polka Dots
#1 of 51 in The Bailey School Kids Series
What’s inside...
The Bailey School Kids are gearing up for trouble when their new third-grade teacher, Mrs. Jeepers, arrives from the Transylvanian Alps. Rumors swirl that she may be a vampire, given her strange powers and unconventional methods for handling the unruly students. As a part of a widely loved early chapter book series, this story has been refreshed with brand-new, modern cover art that appeals to young readers.
Character compass
Liza
Eddie
Melody
Howie
Mrs. Jeepers
Discussion points
Why do you think the students initially believed Mrs. Jeepers might be a vampire? What clues led them to think that?
How did the characters' feelings towards Mrs. Jeepers change throughout the story? What events influenced these changes?
What would you do if you were in a similar mysterious situation like the students? How would you try to find out the truth?
What lessons do you think the story teaches about judging others based on rumors or appearances?
If you could ask Mrs. Jeepers one question, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your thoughts on the book, opening up a natural dialogue about the story's themes.
Ask open-ended questions that require more than a yes or no answer to encourage deeper thinking and conversation.
Relate the characters' experiences to your child’s own life, asking if they’ve ever misunderstood someone like the students did with Mrs. Jeepers.
Encourage empathy by discussing how different characters might have felt at various points in the story.
Praise your child for their thoughts and responses, reinforcing their confidence to express their opinions and analyses.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: The story demonstrates acceptance as the students learn to appreciate their unusual teacher, Mrs. Jeepers, despite her being a vampire.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace diversity and accept peers who may look or behave differently from themselves.
Example Lesson: Courage in Facing Fears
Explanation: The students confront their initial fear of Mrs. Jeepers once they suspect she might be a vampire, demonstrating bravery.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to face their own fears, whether it's a new situation or meeting new people, strengthening their emotional resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of Cooperation
Explanation: The book highlights teamwork as the students collaborate to unveil the truth about Mrs. Jeepers.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of working together to solve problems, a skill essential in school projects and family activities.
Example Lesson: Respecting Authority
Explanation: Despite their fears, the students learn to respect and listen to Mrs. Jeepers, recognizing her role as their teacher.
Real-World Application: Instills the importance of respecting teachers and elders, promoting harmonious interactions in school and at home.