The Demon Headmaster (Puffin Books)
#2 of 8 in The Demon Headmaster Series
on Goodreads (500)
What’s inside...
This book contains two brilliant Demon Headmaster stories in one volume. At Dinah's new school, all the children are very well-behaved, and they even work during playtime due to their fear of the Headmaster, who has sinister powers. This edition is a Puffin 1995 TV tie-in paperback in fine condition and is available from a UK warehouse.
Discussion points
What do you think about the Demon Headmaster's control over the students? How does it make you feel?
How does Dinah's bravery inspire you? Can you think of a time when you had to be brave?
Why is teamwork important in overcoming challenges as shown by SPLAT's efforts against the Headmaster?
What would you do if you were a member of SPLAT? How would you try to solve the mystery?
How do you think the story would change if one of the characters made a different decision at a key moment?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start your discussion by sharing your own thoughts on the book to create a comfortable atmosphere for open conversation. Utilize pauses after each question to give your child time to think and formulate their responses. Show interest in their opinions, even if they differ from yours, to encourage them to share more. Connect themes from the book to real-life situations or personal experiences to make the discussion more relatable and engaging. End the conversation by asking your child if there's anything they would like to learn more about, related to the book’s themes and characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of critical thinking
Explanation: Throughout 'The Demon Headmaster', the protagonist Dinah and her friends question the odd behaviors at their school, which leads them to uncover the truth about the headmaster's sinister intentions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by questioning inconsistencies and seeking answers, enhancing their problem-solving abilities in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: Dinah, Lloyd, and Harvey collaborate to tackle challenges and ultimately defeat the headmaster, demonstrating that collective effort can overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to work cooperatively in group settings like school projects or sports, emphasizing that teamwork can lead to greater success than individual efforts.
Example Lesson: Standing up against manipulation
Explanation: The children in the book recognize and resist the headmaster’s manipulative tactics, learning to trust their own judgments.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of resisting peer pressure and understanding the impact of their choices, fostering a sense of personal integrity and confidence.
Example Lesson: Importance of individual identity
Explanation: The headmaster's attempt to control the minds of students highlights the significance of individual thoughts and freedom, celebrated by the students' rebellion.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and express their unique thoughts and opinions, reinforcing self-esteem and respect for others’ differences in real-world social interactions.