The Boo Baby Girl Meets the Ghost of Mable's Gable
What’s inside...
Horror overcome by humor in a classic tale retold by a modern storyteller. Something of a quest story for the picture book set, this playful horror tale sets young protagonists against 'the Ghost of Mable's Gable'. In Jim May's version of a story from children's folklore, eighth grade boys swagger but fail, only to be followed and outdone by an unlikely heroine, 'the Boo Baby Girl,' a toddler who will not be denied.
Discussion points
How do you think Boo Baby Girl felt when she met the Ghost of Mable's Gable for the first time?
What would you have done if you were in Boo Baby Girl's place?
Why do you think the ghost was at Mable's Gable?
Can you think of a time when you were scared like Boo Baby Girl? What helped you feel better?
What is the most important lesson Boo Baby Girl learned from her adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book’s themes by relating them to their own experiences.
Foster empathy by discussing Boo Baby Girl's emotions and actions, and how your child might feel in a similar situation.
Highlight the bravery and curious nature of Boo Baby Girl to inspire these traits in your child.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book to deepen their connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: The protagonist, Boo Baby Girl, confronts the ghost living in her attic, showing bravery despite her initial fear.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their fears, understanding that they can overcome challenges by confronting them rather than avoiding.
Example Lesson: Friendship and understanding
Explanation: Boo Baby Girl befriends the ghost, Mable, revealing that understanding others can lead to unexpected friendships.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of being open to friendships with those who might seem different, fostering inclusivity and empathy.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: The story encourages exploring new places and asking questions, as Boo Baby Girl's adventure begins with her curiosity about the attic.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be inquisitive about their surroundings and to learn from their environments, promoting lifelong learning and cognitive development.
Example Lesson: Problem solving
Explanation: Boo Baby Girl and Mable work together to solve the mystery of the noises in the attic.
Real-World Application: This emphasizes the importance of collaboration and using creative thinking to solve problems, skills that are applicable in school and beyond.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of others
Explanation: Despite her initial scare, Boo Baby Girl learns to accept Mable the ghost, who is different from her.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of accepting and embracing individual differences, which is crucial in developing a diverse and harmonious community.