Sam Wu is Not Afraid of Ghosts
#1 of 6 in Sam Wu is Not Afraid of ... Series
What’s inside...
Sam Wu is NOT a scaredy-cat (except he is). When a trip to the Space Museum goes terrifyingly wrong, Sam begins a mission to prove to the school bully, and all of his friends, that he is a fearless space adventurer. The story is filled with ghost hunting, snakes, and mischievous pet cats called Butterbutt. The dynamic type, graphics, cartoonish illustrations, and ironic footnotes make it appealing to reluctant readers and fans of the Wimpy Kid series.
Character compass
Sam Wu
Zoey
Lucy Wu
Bernard
Ralphie
Discussion points
What do you think Sam Wu felt when he said he was not afraid of ghosts? Can you share a time when you felt brave?
How did Sam's friends help him overcome his fears? Why is it important to have supportive friends?
What are some ways Sam dealt with his fears throughout the book? Do you think these ways can help you too?
If you were in Sam’s situation, what would you have done differently? Why?
How do you think the story would change if Sam was afraid of something else? What would you be afraid of?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate to your child by sharing your own experiences with fear and how you overcame them.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them what they would do in Sam's shoes, promoting empathy and problem-solving skills.
Praise your child for their insights to boost their confidence in expressing their thoughts and feelings.
Link the discussion to real-life scenarios by asking your child to connect Sam’s adventures with their personal experiences, enhancing their ability to relate to the character and understand their own emotions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Sam Wu conquers his fear of ghosts by confronting and standing up to them, showing bravery despite his initial fright.
Real-World Application: Children learn that facing their fears, no matter how big or small, can be a step towards overcoming them. This encourages bravery in situations like trying new activities or overcoming nervousness in social settings.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Sam's friends support and believe in him, which boosts his confidence and helps him to face his fears.
Real-World Application: Children understand the value of supporting and being supported by friends, which promotes building healthy, supportive relationships with peers.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: Sam uses his imagination to create plans and tools to deal with ghosts, showing how creativity can be a powerful tool.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their creativity to solve problems and think outside the box in daily challenges and play.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Despite setbacks and ongoing fears, Sam continues to push through his fear, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges, understanding that persistence is key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Self-expression and identity
Explanation: Sam learns to express who he is openly and not to let his fears define him.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of self-acceptance and expressing their true selves in various social situations and stages of life.