Howliday Inn (Bunnicula & Friends)



Last updated Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Author: James Howe
Illustrator: Lynn Munsinger
Date of Publication: 1982
ISBN: 0689308469
Grade Level: 5th    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Oct. 2024

Synopsis: Harold and Chester could hardly believe it. The Monroe family was going on vacation without them. Bunnicula, the family rabbit, would be boarded with a neighbor. But they, the family's loyal dog and cat, were to be sent away with strangers; they were to spend a week at Chateau Bow-Wow.

Chateau Bow-Wow, observed Chester, soon after they arrived, could more properly be called Howliday Inn. Though what was howling, neither of them knew. Chester had his suspicions however - only a werewolf could make that chilling sound.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Where do you think the family is going?
•  How do you think Harold and Chester feel about being in the car?

Vocabulary

•  Ruffle - To disturb a smooth, even surface.
•  Seize - To take hold of with force and speed.
•  Whimper - To cry in weak, broken sounds.
•  Scowl - To make an angry frown.

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Would you want to bring Harold and Chester along on a trip? Why or why not?
•  What do you think being boarded means?
•  What do you picture it's like staying at Chateau Bow-Wow?

Craft ideas:
•  The children can draw pictures of the Howliday Inn.
•  Create your own sign for a pet vacation resort.
•  We have a special "Castles, Dragons & Dinosaurs" craft suggested for this month. See https://www.paulsprehistoricpark.com/?p=7748. This craft recommends the use of white gelly roll pens. If you have some or can pick some up, they will help with drawing on BLACK construction paper, since most of the schools do not have them in the craft boxes already.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!