#1 in Goosebumps Series
Welcome to Dead House
on Goodreads (38,596)
What’s inside...
When the Benson family moves into the old and shrouded house, they are happy to find themselves the owners of a grand mansion, but as time passes, they realize the house is inhabited by ghosts of people who used to live there and they seem to want the Benson family to join them in the world of the dead.
Character compass
Discussion points
How did the characters' feelings change throughout the story? What events influenced these changes?
What would you do if you were in a similar situation as the characters in the book?
How did the setting of the story contribute to the overall mood? Can you imagine this story happening somewhere else?
Who was your favorite character and why? Did you see any of your own qualities in this character?
What are some of the important decisions the characters had to make? Do you agree with their choices?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing your own thoughts on the book, and encourage your child to express their opinions without interruption.
Use the questions as a guide, but let the conversation flow naturally, allowing your child to bring up their own thoughts or related topics.
Relate the situations in the book to real-life scenarios to help your child connect with the themes and characters.
Praise your child's responses and insights. This will boost their confidence and encourage them to share more.
End the conversation by asking them if they would like to read more books like this, to understand their preferences and encourage further reading.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of fear
Explanation: The protagonists, Amanda and Josh, demonstrate bravery as they explore the mysteries of their new, eerie home and confront the unknown.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face unfamiliar situations with bravery, understanding that it’s okay to feel scared while also finding strength to overcome those fears.
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity and critical thinking
Explanation: Throughout the story, Amanda and Josh question anomalies and investigate the strange events surrounding them, showcasing their critical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek answers, building a foundation for problem-solving and informed decision-making in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Value of family bonds
Explanation: The siblings' joint efforts and mutual support highlight the strength that family ties provide during challenging times.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of supporting family members and working together to face obstacles.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: Amanda and Josh adjust to a new town and a new school, learning to adapt to significant life changes.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the need to adapt positively to changes such as moving to a new place or transitioning to a new school.