SuitabookDial a Ghost
Eva Ibbotson
- Reading
- Pause after major twists to discuss what the characters know and what remains uncertain.
- Themes
- Kindness and belonging: The Wilkinsons seek a more suitable home, and their presence comforts Oliver after they settle with him. The story appears to value companionship, care and belonging through the kindly ghosts’ relationship with Oliver.
- Fear used as a weapon: Guardians seek terrifying ghosts to drive Oliver from Helton Hall by frightening him to death. The scheme is presented as a dastardly or evil plan, while suspense comes from waiting to see whether it succeeds or backfires.
- Appearance and moral judgement: A response argues that good characters are repeatedly presented as attractive or ‘normal’, while bad characters are physically repulsive. This may invite a critical discussion of whether the story links appearance with virtue, rather than treating that link as a sound moral rule.
- Worth knowing
- Consider discussing how the story distinguishes kindness from cruelty, and whether judging characters by appearance is fair. One response raises concern that goodness and ugliness may be repeatedly paired.