FOX & THE GHOST KING- NOT-U_HB
on Goodreads (670)
What’s inside...
A delightful tale of victory against all odds from master storyteller, Michael Morpurgo, lavishly illustrated by Michael Foreman. In a cosy den under a garden shed lives a family of foxes who love to watch football. But their favorite team keeps losing. That is, until Daddy Fox finds the ghost of a king, buried underneath a car park. The Ghost King promises to grant any wish in exchange for his freedom. For these football-loving foxes, their fortunes may be about to change. A warm and funny story blending football, a ghost, and a significant archaeological discovery, perfect for younger readers.
Age
7-10
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Dad Fox
Fox Cub
Ghost King (Richard Iii)
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make the Fox a good leader?
How do you feel about the Ghost King and his role in the story?
What lesson did you learn from the Fox's adventure?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone and how it made you feel?
Why is it important to keep promises, like the characters in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by sharing your own thoughts on the book's themes and ask your child to do the same, creating a safe space for open conversation.
Encourage your child to relate the book’s scenarios to their real-life experiences, which can deepen their understanding and empathy.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to keep the conversation flowing and show genuine interest in their thoughts.
Highlight the moral lessons in the story, discussing how they can apply these lessons to their everyday lives.
Consider using expressive read-aloud techniques, changing your tone and volume to match the story’s events, which can make the discussion more engaging and lively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance pays off
Explanation: In the story, the foxes work together diligently to help the Ghost King, demonstrating persistence in achieving their goal.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of staying determined and working hard towards their goals, whether in school projects or personal tasks.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The fox family collaborates effectively, combining their efforts to assist the Ghost King, showcasing the power of working together.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate the value of teamwork in group activities at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Justice and fairness
Explanation: The story revolves around the foxes helping the Ghost King find peace by righting the wrongs of the past, emphasizing the importance of justice.
Real-World Application: Children are taught to always seek fairness in their interactions with others and to stand up for what is right.
Example Lesson: History's impact on the present
Explanation: The tale intertwines historical elements with the present, showing how past events continue to shape our world.
Real-World Application: Kids understand that history is not just a story from the past but has direct implications on our current environment and can shape societal values.
Example Lesson: Hope and optimism
Explanation: Despite the bleak situation of the Ghost King, the narrative maintains a hopeful tone, culminating in a positive resolution.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to remain optimistic and hopeful, even in difficult situations, encouraging a positive outlook on life.