Hungry Ghost
on Goodreads (5,444)
What’s inside...
A beautiful and heart-wrenching young adult graphic novel takes a look at eating disorders, family dynamics, and ultimately, a journey to self-love. Valerie Chu is quiet, studious, and above all, thin. No one, not even her best friend Jordan, knows that she has been binging and purging for years. But when tragedy strikes, Val finds herself taking a good, hard look at her priorities, her choices, and her own body. The path to happiness may lead her away from her hometown and her mother's toxic projections―but first she will have to find the strength to seek help.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
14-18
Length
208 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the ghost is hungry, and what does it need the most?
How do the characters in the story show kindness to the ghost?
What would you do if you met a ghost like the one in the story?
Can you think of a time when you felt like the ghost? What helped you feel better?
What is the most important lesson the ghost learns by the end of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think a 'hungry ghost' might be, to spark their imagination.
While reading, pause after emotional moments and discuss how different actions make them feel.
Encourage your child to predict what might happen next in the story, enhancing their analytical skills.
Post-reading, connect the story's themes to real-life scenarios your child might relate to, enhancing understanding and empathy.
Revisit the story after a few days and ask if they have thought more about it or view it differently, encouraging ongoing reflection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: In 'Hungry Ghost,' the protagonist encounters various characters who are different from themselves, which teaches the significance of understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to recognize emotions in their peers and offering kindness and support in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The story illustrates the importance of taking accountability for one's actions through the character's journey of making right what they wronged.
Real-World Application: Kids can relate this to their lives by taking ownership of their tasks, like completing homework or chores, and understanding the consequences of their actions.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Facing fears is a central theme as the protagonist must overcome intimidating obstacles to resolve the conflict, demonstrating bravery.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their own fears, such as trying out for a sports team, participating in a school play, or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, the character continues to strive towards their goal, emphasizing the value of persistence.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of persistence in challenging tasks or situations at school or in personal development, reinforcing that effort leads to achievement.
Example Lesson: Sharing
Explanation: The ghost learns the joy that comes from sharing with others, a pivotal moment that highlights the benefits of generosity.
Real-World Application: Children can take away the lesson of sharing toys, time, or attention with others, which can help in building friendships and social skills.