Screaming Mummies of the Pharaoh's Tomb II (Tales From the House of Bunnicula)
#4 of 6 in Tales From The House Of Bunnicula Series
What’s inside...
In 'Screaming Mummies of the Pharaoh's Tomb II,' part of the 'Tales From the House of Bunnicula' series by James Howe, the story is narrated by Howie, a dachshund puppy aspiring to be a writer. The book humorously explores the horror genre, targeting a children’s audience. Howie writes about ancient Egypt, mummies, and a curse, drawing inspiration from Uncle Harold’s adventure stories. His narrative, filled with playful language and puns, addresses the challenges of storytelling, such as writer's block and interruptions from his friend Delilah. This comedic adventure also delves into the pleasures and difficulties of the creative writing process.
Discussion points
What do you think Chester and Harold felt when they discovered the screaming mummies? How would you feel in their situation?
Why do you think the author chose mummies for this adventure? What makes mummies interesting to learn about?
How did the characters work together to solve the mystery? Can you think of a time when you had to work with others to solve a problem?
What do you think is the most important message of this story? How can we apply that message in our daily lives?
If you could ask the author one question about the book, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin your discussion by asking your child what they liked most about the book, and share your favorite part too, to create a mutual connection.
Encourage your child to describe the setting and characters, helping them use their imagination and recall details.
Address any complex emotions or themes in the story, reassuring your child and explaining the context if needed.
Connect themes from the book to real life experiences, fostering empathy and understanding.
Let your child express their point of view and encourage them to think critically about the story's events and characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters demonstrate caring and cooperative behaviors that strengthen their relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and nurture friendships by being supportive and understanding towards their peers.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Real-World Application: Encourages children to face their own fears, whether it's trying something new or standing up for themselves.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The fantastical elements and unique characters in the book spark imagination and creativity.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to use their creativity in play, storytelling, or problem solving in daily activities.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Characters encounter challenges that they solve using teamwork and clever thinking.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of thinking critically and collaboratively when faced with obstacles.
Example Lesson: Importance of Humor
Explanation: The book uses humor to engage readers and lighten the mood of spooky scenarios.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the role of humor in coping with fear and in seeing the light-hearted side of difficult situations.