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Set aside a regular time for reading in your family, independent of schoolwork, the 20 minutes before lights out, just... More
Summary: When the ghosts on Ghoul Street start complaining about living in a haunted house, Dirk Bones is given the task of writing an article for the newspaper. What could it be that's scaring the ghosts? This is a seasonal tale for beginning readers.
Type of Reading: bedtime story, family reading, anytime reading, read aloud book, learning to read
Recommended Age: read together: 4 to 8; read yourself: 6 to 9
Interest Level: 5 to 8
Age of Child: Started reading with 5-year-old child.
Little Kid Reaction: S/He loved this story immediately. After nearly a month of nightly readings, everyone now gets to play their part to bring the story to life.
Big Kid Reaction: This is a fun read, particularly now that we have scripted re-enactments each evening. It is an easy way to make reading fun. We hope there are more adventures for Dirk.
Pros: The story is as more humorous than scary, pretty much guaranteeing multiple readings. The format allows for an easy transition to a 'play' if taking parts helps engage your young reader.
Cons: None.
Borrow or Buy: Buy! Even though the plot would seem to be timed for Halloween, this is year-round fun reading.
Educational Themes: This is principally a story to help new readers. Still, there are things you can do to add to the fun by exploring sounds and uncovering other 'mysteries' of everyday life.
Literary Categories: Fiction - holiday, animal stories, series book
Date(s) Reviewed: October 2006
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