A House Unsettled
What’s inside...
WOKE GHOST STORY is a powerful exploration of haunting as it relates to racism, homophobia, the patriarchy, and colonialism. It highlights the power of love and resistance to break cycles of violence, even supernatural ones. This genuinely scary ghost story, perfect for the Spooky season, is written by debut author Trynne, who brings an authentic, intersectional perspective to the narrative. Trynne's heritage is of Black Loyalist and settler, and they identify as lesbian and genderqueer. The story poses deep questions about the origins and the impacts of the house: 'Who built this house? Whose money? Whose blood?'
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
13-17
Length
360 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the characters' feelings change throughout the story, and what events led to those changes?
What do you think the house represents in the story?
If you were a character in the book, how would you try to resolve the mystery of the unsettled house?
What are some ways the characters showed courage or teamwork?
How did the ending make you feel, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about how the characters' emotions and actions relate to their own experiences.
Discuss the symbolism of the house and ask your child what other objects they think could have similar meanings in stories.
Prompt your child to come up with alternative solutions to the mystery, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Point out moments of bravery or collaboration in the story and relate them to real-life scenarios that your child might encounter.
After finishing the book, revisit your child’s initial thoughts on how the story might end and compare it to the actual conclusion to enhance their analytical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: In 'A House Unsettled', the characters must work together to solve the mystery of their eerie home. Cooperation and collaboration are key to their success.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of working together to achieve common goals, which is applicable in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: The young protagonists confront supernatural elements and their personal fears. Their bravery in the face of the unknown propels the story forward.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to tackle their fears, whether it's trying out for a new activity or dealing with difficult situations at school.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The mystery surrounding the house requires the children to use critical thinking and reasoning to find clues and connect the dots.
Real-World Application: Enhances a child’s ability to think critically and solve problems in their daily life, encouraging a logical approach to challenges.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As the characters uncover the history of the house, they also learn about the previous inhabitants' lives and struggles, fostering a deep sense of empathy.
Real-World Application: Promotes understanding and tolerance towards others' circumstances and histories, crucial for social interaction and relationship building.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Despite setbacks and scares, the children remain determined to uncover the truth about the house, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of perseverance in overcoming obstacles, be it in their academic pursuit or personal goals.