Madeline and the Old House in Paris
#7 of 20 in Madeline Series
on Goodreads (398)
What’s inside...
Madeline and her friend Pepito embark on an adventure to help Felix de La Morte, a ghost who has been lingering in the attic of an old house in Paris for centuries. Felix is waiting for a comet that is due to return the next day, but his telescope has been stolen by Lord Cucuface. Madeline and Pepito bravely venture out at night to retrieve the telescope, encountering a midnight apparition along the way. Their mission is successful, and they return in time to watch the comet with Felix, forming a new friendship in the process. Throughout the adventure, Madeline remains fearless, even when faced with the ghost.
Discussion points
How do you think Madeline felt when she saw the old house in Paris for the first time?
What would you do if you met a ghost like the one Madeline meets in the story?
Why is it important to help others, just like Madeline helps the ghost?
Can you think of a time when you solved a problem by being brave and clever?
What do you think makes Madeline’s adventures exciting?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by asking your child what they found most interesting about the book.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Madeline’s shoes and ask how they would react in similar situations.
Discuss the themes of bravery and kindness in the book, relating them to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Ask your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene from the book, then describe why they chose that particular scene.
Use open-ended questions that require more than a yes or no response to encourage deeper thinking and engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Madeline displays bravery when she decides to face the mysterious happenings in the old house rather than run away from them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their fears, whether it's trying out for a sports team, speaking in front of the class, or sleeping alone in the dark.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: Madeline’s adventurous spirit leads her to explore the old house, showing her keenness to learn and discover new things.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be inquisitive and explore the world around them, which can lead to learning and growth.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Madeline encounters various challenges that she solves using her wit and resources.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of using critical thinking and creativity to solve problems, both academically and in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Madeline works together with her friends to uncover the secrets of the old house, showing how collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Highlights the value of working together and supporting each other, skills that are essential for building strong relationships and achieving common goals.
Example Lesson: Respect for history and heritage
Explanation: The story’s setting in an old Parisian house introduces elements of history and the importance of preserving it.
Real-World Application: Encourages an appreciation for history and teaches children to respect and learn from the past as they build their future.