The Kingfisher Treasury of Spooky Stories
#1 in The Kingfisher Treasury Series
What’s inside...
This thematic anthology brings together the best writing for children from renowned authors, with spooky and mysterious themes. The collection includes thrilling and chilling stories by Jan Mark, Virginia Hamilton, Susan Price, and Ruskin Bond, among others. It is filled with blood-curdling tension, hilarious horror, clanking skeletons, moonlit churchyards, and mysterious phantoms, all illustrated in atmospheric black-and-white drawings. This anthology is ideal for bedtime reading on dark nights in a dark house.
Discussion points
What was your favorite spooky story in the collection, and what did you like about it?
How did the characters in the story handle scary situations? What would you do in their place?
Did any of the stories make you laugh? Which one and why?
How do you think the author uses words to create a spooky atmosphere? Can you think of any examples?
After reading these stories, do you think about bravery and fear differently? Why or why not?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by sharing your own thoughts on the spooky stories to make your child feel comfortable expressing their opinions. Praise their insights to encourage deeper thinking. Use examples from the stories to relate to everyday situations which can help your child connect the themes to their own experiences. Highlight the creativity involved in storytelling to inspire their imagination.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: The stories in 'The Kingfisher Treasury of Spooky Stories' often feature characters who confront and overcome their fears, demonstrating bravery.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by facing everyday fears, such as trying new activities or standing up for themselves in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: Characters in the book often encounter others with problems and fears. Seeing the world from another's perspective is a common theme.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to understand and share the feelings of their peers, fostering a more compassionate interaction in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: The value of cleverness and resourcefulness
Explanation: Many stories highlight characters using their wits to solve problems or escape spooky situations, showcasing intelligence and ingenuity.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of thinking critically and creatively when faced with challenges, helping them navigate schoolwork and social situations.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: The book includes stories where characters face consequences of their choices, reinforcing the concept of accountability.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of considering the consequences before acting, which is crucial in decision-making processes.
Example Lesson: Importance of storytelling
Explanation: The collection of spooky stories itself celebrates the ancient art of storytelling, emphasizing how tales can entertain, teach, and connect us.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to engage in storytelling, enhancing their communication skills and imagination while preserving cultural traditions.