by J.K. Rowling 1998

Welcome to the parent guide for this text! Read below to find out about what your child is reading in class and how you can support him/her at home.

This week in class, we’re reading ""The Worst Birthday" from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" by J.K. Rowling.

After a year spent at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizadry, Harry Potter returns to his non-magical family for the summer, where he must endure his family treating him badly because they fear his powers.

As we read, we will be discussing the themes of Fear & Paranoia, Justice, Freedom & Equality, and Loneliness & Isolation as they relate to the text. We are trying to answer these big questions :

"How does fear drive action?", "What is fair?", and "What does it mean to feel alone?"

Ways to support your child:

  • Ask your child about this piece of fantasy at home:
    • What was ""The Worst Birthday" from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" about?
    • What did you learn about Fear & Paranoia?
    • What did you learn about Justice, Freedom & Equality?
    • What did you learn about Loneliness & Isolation?
  • Watch the following clips with your child at home: