The Reluctant Vampire (The Reluctant Vampire, Book 1)
#1 of 2 in The Reluctant Vampire Series
on Goodreads (137)
What’s inside...
A shocking announcement from the Vampire Prince - that he doesn't like blood but prefers chips and a glass of red wine - begins a tale of ghoulish intrigue and hilarious horror. With illustrations by Tony Ross, this re-issue is sure to delight. A tale about an extremely unconventional vampire. This tale of laughter and ghoulish horror for seven and eight year-olds is sure to delight. Here, Eric Morecambe’s customary humour is employed for a young audience.
Discussion points
How did the main character's feelings about being a vampire change throughout the story?
What challenges did the Reluctant Vampire face, and how did he overcome them?
Can you think of a time when you were reluctant to try something new, like the vampire? How did it turn out?
What did you learn about friendship and acceptance from this book?
If you could give the Reluctant Vampire one piece of advice, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book to open up the conversation. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the story and its characters, ensuring to listen actively. Explore themes of acceptance and trying new things by relating them to your child's experiences. Ask open-ended questions that prompt deeper thinking and connection to the book's themes. Finally, emphasize the moral lessons and ask how they can apply them in their daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: The story portrays the vampire protagonist who is different from typical vampires as he is reluctant to fit the traditional vampire mold. This aspect teaches children to accept and embrace differences in others.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the uniqueness of their peers and understand that everyone has their own set of characteristics that make them special.
Example Lesson: Courage to Be Oneself
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges but ultimately chooses to stay true to himself rather than conform. This underlines the importance of personal integrity and courage.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be true to themselves in situations where peer pressure might make it difficult to do so.
Example Lesson: The Power of Friendship
Explanation: The reluctant vampire finds friends who accept him as he is, which aids his journey. The narrative extols the virtue of supportive friendships.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be supportive friends and seek out friendships that encourage mutual acceptance and understanding.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist encounters various obstacles but manages to navigate them with resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that facing challenges is a part of life, and enduring through them is both possible and rewarding.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As the characters interact with the reluctant vampire, they learn to understand his perspective and fears, demonstrating empathy.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of empathy and taking the time to understand where others are coming from, even if their experiences are different.