A Cemetery Stroll
#1 of 2 in Elford Alley's Haunted Holidays Series
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
Hazel wants to prove her bravery by crossing a cemetery on Halloween night, despite being scared by the chilly air and whistling wind. Along the way, she discovers five strange tales hidden among the tombstones, which provide her with some comfort. Will you join Hazel on her spooky adventure?
Discussion points
What feelings did you experience while reading about the different gravestones and stories?
Why do you think people remember and honor those who have passed away?
If you could leave a message on a gravestone, what would you write and why?
How does the book help us appreciate the history and stories of people from the past?
What did you learn about how different cultures honor their loved ones?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, explain the importance of cemeteries as respectful places where people commemorate loved ones.
While discussing, validate all emotions the child expresses, reassuring them that it's okay to feel sad, curious, or even happy when thinking about memories.
Encourage your child to talk about their personal feelings about loss and memory, linking it to the stories from the book.
Tie the themes of the book to personal family histories or visits to cemeteries, making the discussion more relatable.
After reading, consider visiting a local cemetery to help connect the stories from the book to the real world, emphasizing a respectful approach to learning about history.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'A Cemetery Stroll', the protagonist learns the stories behind the people buried in the cemetery, fostering a deep sense of empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to appreciate the diverse histories and experiences of people around them, promoting inclusivity and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: History's Importance
Explanation: The book illustrates how each gravestone tells a part of history, emphasizing the importance of understanding and preserving past events.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to show interest in their own family histories and the historical events that shape their communities.
Example Lesson: Handling Grief
Explanation: The narrative gently addresses themes of loss and remembrance, showing children healthy ways to cope with grief.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express their feelings about loss and find constructive ways to remember loved ones.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The protagonist's quest to know more about the cemetery's inhabitants demonstrates the value of curiosity and lifelong learning.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to ask questions and seek knowledge actively, both in academic settings and in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Respect for All
Explanation: The respectful tone used when discussing the deceased teaches children to show respect for people, regardless of the situation.
Real-World Application: Children can practice showing respect in their interactions with others, understanding different perspectives and upholding dignity for everyone.