Hardly Haunted
on Goodreads (1,455)
What’s inside...
From the bestselling creator of Not Quite Narwhal comes a delightfully spooky story about an old house who wants to be a home, even if her new family isn't what she expected. House has a problem. She's a little spooky, a little cobwebby, and worries she might be haunted with her creaky hinges and banging pipes. On windy days, branches scritch-scratch at her windows. Attempting to be on her best behavior, she holds her breath and tries to stay still, hoping a family will move in and not mind her haunting features.
Age
2-7
Length
42 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The House
Discussion points
How do you think the house feels when it’s empty and when it’s full of life?
What does it mean to be 'hardly haunted'? Can you think of other things that might be 'hardly' something?
Why do you think the house tries to keep quiet and still at first? What changes its mind?
How can we make someone feel welcome when they are new, just like the house did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to connect emotionally with the house’s character by asking how they feel in similar situations of loneliness or joy. Utilize expressive reading to highlight the emotive illustrations, enhancing the shared reading experience. Discuss the importance of acceptance and openness to new experiences, as shown through the house’s journey.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Uniqueness
Explanation: The story of 'Hardly Haunted' centers around a house that is different because it is haunted. Instead of being fearful or ashamed, the house learns to embrace its uniqueness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate what makes them unique and carry confidence in their individual traits and abilities, fostering self-acceptance.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fears
Explanation: Throughout the book, the house faces and overcomes its fear of being alone and unwanted due to its haunted nature.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of facing their fears. Whether it's starting at a new school or trying out for a sports team, children can be encouraged to confront challenges head-on.
Example Lesson: Value of Self-Expression
Explanation: The haunted house in the story expresses itself through sounds and actions that initially scare people away but eventually are accepted and loved.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of expressing themselves and how this self-expression can lead to better understanding and acceptance by others.
Example Lesson: Finding One's Purpose
Explanation: As the story progresses, the house finds purpose and joy in being a playful and spooky haunted house.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children the importance of discovering and embracing their own purposes and passions in life, encouraging them to pursue what truly makes them happy.