Zombies Don't Play Soccer
#15 of 51 in The Bailey School Kids Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (963)
What’s inside...
The Bailey School Kids series features two stories about their soccer coaches who exhibit strange behaviors, leading the kids to suspect they might be zombies. In the first story, their coach Ms. Jeepers displays unusual strength and speed, and has strange red goo on her shoes, sparking suspicions of her being a zombie. However, she turns out to be a dedicated coach with unconventional methods. In the second story, Coach Graves starts acting oddly after an encounter with a strange old lady, leading the kids to think she's been zombified. They must find a way to break the spell before their big game. Both stories highlight themes of teamwork, dedication, and not judging by appearances.
Character compass
Eddie
Liza
Melody
Howie
Mrs. Bones
Discussion points
Why do you think the characters believed Mrs. Jeepers might be a vampire? How would you feel in their situation?
How do the characters in the story work together to solve the mystery? Can you think of a time when you worked with others to solve a problem?
How did the idea of a vampire coach change the way the characters acted during soccer practice? How do you act when you are scared or unsure?
What lessons did the characters learn by the end of the story about judging others?
If you were in the story, what would you have done differently? Why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story and its characters. Validate their feelings and provide insights when necessary. Use the questions to guide a deeper understanding of teamwork, overcoming fears, and suspending judgments. Link themes from the book to real-world scenarios your child might encounter, enhancing their ability to relate and apply the story's lessons. Foster a supportive environment where your child feels comfortable discussing different viewpoints and outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: The characters in 'Zombies Don't Play Soccer' work together to overcome challenges on the soccer field, demonstrating the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by collaborating with classmates on school projects or working with teammates in sports, learning to value everyone's contributions.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of differences
Explanation: The book portrays a variety of characters, some with unusual traits, showing that everyone can contribute positively to a team despite their differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to embrace diversity among peers and learn from others' unique perspectives and abilities in their community or school.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The storyline involves characters facing unexpected situations during their soccer games, where they must come up with creative solutions.
Real-World Application: Children can use this approach in real life by thinking critically and creatively to solve problems they encounter, whether in academics or personal scenarios.
Example Lesson: Importance of physical activity
Explanation: By focusing on soccer, the book encourages an active lifestyle and the fun of engaging in sports.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to participate in physical activities, understanding the health benefits and enjoyment sports bring.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in face of challenges
Explanation: Characters continue to play and give their best effort despite the odd circumstances, illustrating the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to keep trying and not give up easily when faced with difficulties, be it in learning new skills or dealing with personal challenges.