The Best Halloween Ever
#3 of 3 in The Herdmans series
on Goodreads (2,618)
What’s inside...
Every Halloween, the six Herdman kids cause chaos by stealing candy, spray-painting other kids, and taking everything that isn't nailed down. However, this year the Mayor cancels Halloween to avoid the Herdman trouble, meaning no candy, costumes, or trick-or-treating. Can the Herdmans turn what looks like a horrible Halloween into the best one ever?
Character compass
Beth Bradley
Charlie Bradley
Alice Wendelken
Leroy Herdman
Ralph Herdman
Gladys Herdman
Imogene Herdman
Discussion points
How do the Herdmans make Halloween different this year compared to previous years?
What do you think about the Halloween celebrations in the book? How would you want to celebrate Halloween?
The book portrays various ways to solve problems. Which method did you like the most and why?
The Herdmans are often misunderstood. Have you ever felt misunderstood? How did you handle it?
What is the importance of community in 'The Best Halloween Ever'? How does the community impact the Herdmans and vice versa?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own Halloween experiences with those in the book, fostering a deeper connection with the story.
Discuss the concept of misunderstanding, a major theme in the book. Use examples from the Herdmans' experiences to draw parallels with real-life situations your child might encounter.
Explore the theme of community by discussing how different characters contribute to Halloween festivities, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and cooperation.
Ask your child to think about problem-solving by discussing different approaches characters in the book take to resolve conflict, and relate those to personal experiences.
Emphasize empathy by discussing the feelings and motivations of various characters, particularly the Herdmans, and how understanding others can lead to better outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'The Best Halloween Ever', the community, including the Herdman siblings, comes together to ensure a memorable and joyous Halloween, despite previous chaotic events.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of collaborating with others to achieve a common goal, which can be applied in group projects at school or in community activities.
Example Lesson: Creativity in problem-solving
Explanation: The book showcases how the mayor and the school principal come up with a creative solution to hold Halloween indoors to prevent further mischief.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively when faced with challenges or restrictions, finding constructive and positive ways to address issues.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: The Herdman siblings' previous actions lead to restrictions on Halloween celebrations, illustrating that actions have consequences.
Real-World Application: Children learn to consider the impact of their actions on themselves and others, emphasizing responsibility and forethought.
Example Lesson: Transformation and redemption
Explanation: Despite their reputation, the Herdman siblings play a positive part in making Halloween successful, showing that people can change for the better.
Real-World Application: This teaches children about forgiveness and the possibility of redemption, encouraging them to be open to change in themselves and others.
Example Lesson: Community spirit
Explanation: Despite initial setbacks, the entire community comes together to celebrate Halloween, showing the strength and spirit of community.
Real-World Application: This lesson underscores the importance of community support and participation, which can be applied to fostering a sense of belonging and contributing to community events.