Sam Wu is Not Afraid of Spiders
#4 of 6 in Sam Wu is Not Afraid of ... Series
What’s inside...
The brilliantly funny fourth book in the SAM WU series, starring the bravest scaredy-cat in the world! Perfect for reluctant readers and fans of Tom Fletcher, Pamela Butchart and Humza Arshad's Badman. Sam Wu is NOT afraid of anything. Well, maybe some things. Like ghosts, sharks . . . the dark's pretty worrying too. And not to mention SPIDERS! But Sam's not going to let anyone know. And so when Tulip, the school tarantula, disappears from her cage, Sam decides it's up to him and his friends to save the school from the eight-legged escapee.
Discussion points
Why do you think Sam Wu was afraid of spiders, and what helped him overcome his fear?
How did Sam's friends support him during his challenge with spiders? Can you think of a time when your friends helped you?
What does the story teach us about facing our fears?
How did Sam Wu’s feelings towards spiders change by the end of the book?
What would you do if you were in Sam Wu's shoes when encountering a spider?
Tip: Role play these questions
Prior to discussing, ensure your child feels comfortable and understands it’s okay to have fears. Use the discussion as a moment to share personal stories related to overcoming fears, emphasizing empathy and support.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them to consider alternative outcomes in the story; for example, what might have happened if Sam hadn’t faced his fear?
Connect the themes of the book to your child’s life by discussing real situations where they can apply bravery, just like Sam Wu.
Reinforce the positive messages from the book by recognizing and praising instances when your child shows courage in their daily life.
Use expressive reading techniques to make the story engaging: change your voice for different characters and highlight dramatic moments to keep your child intrigued.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: In 'Sam Wu is Not Afraid of Spiders', Sam faces his fear of spiders by interacting with one directly. His journey provides a narrative where confronting fears is shown to be beneficial.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears, whether it’s trying a new activity or dealing with insects, knowing that courage can lead to positive outcomes and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Sam’s friends support him in overcoming his fear, illustrating how true friends encourage and help each other in challenging times.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to support their peers in real-life situations, fostering a kind and helpful community.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Sam’s experiences teach readers about understanding and sharing feelings. The narrative allows children to see situations from another's perspective, particularly those who have fears of their own.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to be more considerate and understanding towards others who may have different fears or anxieties.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Over the course of the book, Sam shows resilience as he tackles his arachnophobia. His character demonstrates that persistence in the face of challenges is crucial.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of not giving up easily, applying persistence in their studies, hobbies, or interpersonal challenges.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: By the end of the book, Sam learns to accept his fear as part of who he is, which is a powerful message about self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that it's okay to have fears, and accepting themselves as they are is a key step in personal growth and self-confidence.