Re: MID: Goosebumps

[Joan Kimball <jkim@BORG.COM>]

Joanne, I have had a lot of Goosebumps books, but a) I haven't bought any
for two years, b) many "disappeared" and what I have left are getting worn
out, and c) only the first and second graders are reading them---not what I
really want, although, with the primary kids, in almost all instances they
are being read to by an adult who can guide the child's interpretation of
the story.

Really, Goosebumps is more suitable to Gr. 4-7. But aren't kids the same as
adults:  their tastes change rapidly. Right now I have more calls for books
on the Titanic, the _I Spy_ books and, with the youngest, Henry and Mudge.

I think my collection has served its purpose, and it is not necessary to
replace the titles any more.  The series did get quite a few children
started on reading, and many of the children who are reading the better
scary, mystery, and fantasy books in the library got started with
Goosebumps.

However, for your selection, I'd say some of the titles are less desireable
than others.  You probably should read each one and make up your own mind
which ones are innocuous so you can truly stand behind those you think are
purely fantasy and those that have too sinister a turn.  I'd avoid _Piano
Lessons Can Be Murder_ because (I'm told, I haven't read it) that some of
the characters' hands are cut off.  That's not my idea of Goosebumps.
Goosebumps is supposed to threaten horror and lead up to something scary,
but not have actual violence.


Joan Kimball (jkim@borg.com)
Clinton, NY
Hart's Hill Elementary School Library
Clark Mills Road, Whitesboro, NY 13492