Sam Wu is Not Afraid of the Dark
#3 of 6 in Sam Wu is Not Afraid of ... Series
What’s inside...
The brilliantly funny third SAM WU book - the bravest scaredy-cat in the world! Perfect for reluctant readers and fans of Pamela Butchart. Sam Wu is NOT afraid of anything. Except for quite a lot of things. Like ghosts. Sharks too. And also THE DARK! And so when Sam goes camping in the woods with his friends and cousin Stanley, who knows what scary kind of things they'll face . . .? Sam Wu is NOT Afraid of the Dark is the third book in this brilliantly funny and accessible new series - perfect for newly confident readers, fans of Pamela Butchart and Julian Gough's Rabbit and Bear.
Character compass
Sam Wu
Lucy Wu
Zoey
Bernard
Sam's Mother
Sam's Father
Discussion points
Why do you think Sam Wu was afraid of the dark? What are some things that make you feel scared?
How did Sam try to overcome his fear? Can you think of a time you overcame a fear?
What role do Sam's friends play in the story? How do your friends help you when you're feeling scared?
What was the funniest part of the book for you? Why did it make you laugh?
If you could give Sam Wu another adventure, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Consider sharing your own childhood fears with your child, relating them to Sam Wu's experiences to create an empathetic environment.
Encourage your child to draw a scene from the book, especially focusing on parts where Sam shows courage, to reinforce the theme.
Role-play different outcomes for the story with your child, using toys or props to make the experience interactive and fun.
Use the funniest instances in the book as a starting point to discuss how humor can be used to lighten serious topics like fears.
Post reading, encourage your child to write a letter to Sam Wu sharing their own strategies or stories about facing their fears.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Sam Wu battles his fear of the dark throughout the book, showing resilience and courage as he faces what terrifies him.
Real-World Application: Children can understand that it's okay to be afraid and that facing their fears, big or small, is a brave and important step.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: Sam relies on the support and encouragement from friends as he tries to prove he's not afraid. This highlights the value of having good friends and trusting them.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of building supportive friendships and being there for others during challenging times.
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: Despite his fears, Sam learns to accept himself, realizing it's okay not to be perfect. This self-acceptance is crucial for personal growth.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to embrace their own weaknesses and recognize that everyone has imperfections.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Sam comes up with creative solutions to conquer his fear, demonstrating effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply problem-solving skills to their own fears or challenges, understanding that sometimes, thinking outside the box is necessary.