Bumps in the Night
#1 in Creepy Castle Series
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
The Pickle family love living at the Hungry Horse Cafe. But they're not getting much sleep - because something is making funny noises in the night... and it seems to be stealing things too! Could the Hungry Horse be haunted by a Greedy Ghost? Can the Pickles solve the mystery and find out who -or what - is going BUMP in the night? 'A great first novel to read with kids at bedtime (or anytime).'
Discussion points
What do you think the main character felt when they heard a strange noise? Can you describe a time when you felt the same way?
How do you think the story would change if the noises were coming from something else? What could it be?
Why is it important to investigate things that scare us? How did the character show bravery?
Can you think of a way the character could have solved the mystery differently? What would you have done in their place?
What have you learned from this story about dealing with unknown or scary situations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and relate personal experiences. This will help them connect with the main character and enhance their understanding of the story's themes. Ask open-ended questions that spark imagination and critical thinking, allowing children to consider different perspectives and potential outcomes. Acknowledge and validate their feelings, showing them it's okay to feel scared and that bravery comes in many forms. Lastly, propose role-playing or drawing scenes from the book to make the discussion more interactive and fun.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the Face of Fear
Explanation: In 'Bumps in the Night', the main character confronts spooky sounds and shadows, learning that they are not as scary as they seem once understood.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by approaching new or intimidating situations with curiosity and bravery, understanding that fear often diminishes with familiarity.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, the character uses logical thinking and investigation to find the sources of the mysterious noises.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and approach problems methodically in their daily interactions or when facing challenges.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Play
Explanation: The protagonist imagines various scenarios about what could be causing the 'bumps', showcasing creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use their imagination to entertain themselves and others, which is a crucial part of cognitive development and social play.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As the character understands the true harmless nature of the noises, they develop empathy towards the creatures making the sounds.
Real-World Application: Kids learn that understanding others' perspectives can lead to empathy, reducing fear and enhancing social interactions.
Example Lesson: Independence and Self-Reliance
Explanation: The character faces their fears alone initially, showing self-reliance and personal growth.
Real-World Application: This lesson supports children in feeling confident about handling situations on their own, fostering independence and self-assurance.