My Brother Is a Zombie!: (BookLife Readers)
BookLife readers Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
In 'My Brother Is a Zombie!' by Kirsty Holmes, young readers are introduced to Paige, who notices her brother Ollie acting differently since becoming a teenager. Believing he has turned into a zombie, Paige, armed with a library book, frying pan, and sausages, embarks on a mission to uncover the truth and save her Auntie Pippa's wedding. This lively and imaginative BookLife Reader explores sibling relationships with a fun zombie twist, promoting literacy and creativity while teaching valuable lessons about acceptance and understanding differences.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the brother felt when he was called a zombie?
What would you do if you were in the brother's shoes?
How can we help someone who feels left out or misunderstood?
Why is it important to understand and respect how someone else feels?
Can you think of a time when you felt misunderstood? How did you handle it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the book to set a comfortable tone. Let your child express their feelings and thoughts freely without interruption. Validate their emotions and opinions to build trust and openness. Use the discussion to impart values of empathy, understanding, and acceptance, connecting the story's themes to real-life situations they might encounter.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story portrays the main character learning to accept and understand their brother's unique differences, despite him being a zombie.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace the differences in others, promoting inclusivity and understanding among peers.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Bonds
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes the unconditional love and support between siblings, regardless of circumstances.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to value and strengthen relationships with their family members, fostering a supportive home environment.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fear with Knowledge
Explanation: As the protagonist learns more about their brother's zombie condition, their initial fear is replaced by compassion and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to seek understanding about things they fear or do not comprehend, leading to more informed and less fearful perspectives.
Example Lesson: Creativity in Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters use creative solutions to navigate their unusual situation.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to think outside the box and apply creative thinking to overcome challenges in their daily lives.