The Dark: questions to ask and activities to try
Laszlo is afraid of the dark, until one night the dark comes to visit. The Dark is an empowering story about facing your fears, by Lemony Snicket and Jon Klassen.
What age is it for? The Dark is best for ages 3–7. Good for: Being afraid of the dark, and meeting it.
The Dark (Lemony Snicket and Jon Klassen)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- Being afraid of the dark, and meeting it
Read it slowly at bedtime, in a calm voice for the dark. Talk about what the dark is useful for, and how Laszlo felt afterwards.
What it helps with
- Fear of the dark
- Facing fears
- Bedtime worries
- Things that are only scary until you understand them
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Where did the dark live?”
- “What was Laszlo scared of?”
- “What did the dark say?”
- “What did it show him?”
- “Is the dark useful?”
- “What helps you at night?”
5-minute activities to try together
Torch tour
With a torch, visit the darkest place in the house together and say hello.
Night light
Choose a night light or glow toy together for bedtime.
Free printables: The Dark worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Orion and the Dark (Emma Yarlett)
- Best for
- Being scared of the dark, and making friends with it
- Age
- 3-7
Can't You Sleep, Little Bear? (Martin Waddell and Barbara Firth)
- Best for
- Being scared of the dark at bedtime
- Age
- 2-6
I Want My Hat Back (Jon Klassen)
- Best for
- Reading between the lines, and a very funny ending
- Age
- 3-7
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.