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A Perilous Journey of Danger and Mayhem #3: The Final Gambit

#3 in Perilous Journey of Danger and Mayhem Series

4.11
on Goodreads (54)

What’s inside...

It is 1884, and Molly and Cassandra Pepper, Emmett Lee, and Emmett’s long-lost father are sailing back to New York following their death-defying adventure in Antarctica. Having discovered a subterranean world at the South Pole while saving the world from certain doom once again, surely their accomplishments will finally earn them the recognition they deserve. Unless, of course . . . well, you know by now. And so do the Peppers and Lees. They’re used to having their deeds covered up by the government in order to protect powerful men, and frankly, they’re sick of it. And when their return to New York doesn’t go the way they’d planned, they decide that maybe it’s best to go into hiding and accept that, perhaps, the forces aligned against them are just too great. As the 1884 presidential election approaches, however, our heroes discover a plot against leading candidate Thomas Edison that only they can stop. It’ll be up to them to decide whether to come out of hiding, make the perilous journey to Washington, DC, and do the right thing one last time. Even if it means risking everything they have left.

Why read this book

  • Thrilling adventure captivates and stimulates young minds.
  • Characters model resilience and resourcefulness.
  • Encourages strategic thinking and perseverance.
  • Ideal for enhancing vocabulary and reading skills.
In series
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

8-12

Length

382 pages

Text complexity

Discussion points

What qualities do you admire in Molly and Cassandra's characters and why?
If you were in Molly’s shoes, how would you handle the challenges she faced?
What lessons did you learn about friendship and bravery from the story?
How do you think teamwork contributed to the characters' success in their adventures?
If you could change one part of the book, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the book's scenarios to their own experiences – this can deepen their connection to the characters and the story. Ask open-ended questions that go beyond yes or no answers to foster critical thinking. Be attentive to their responses and provide affirmations to build their confidence in expressing their thoughts and opinions. Discuss the moral lessons in the story and connect them to everyday life situations, helping your child see the relevance of the book to their own world.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout 'The Final Gambit', the characters face numerous challenges and setbacks. Yet, they continue to push forward, demonstrating the importance of determination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to not give up easily when faced with difficulties in school or while learning new skills.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book often rely on each other's strengths to overcome obstacles. This highlights how collaboration can achieve goals that might seem impossible individually.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the benefits of working together in group projects or in team sports, appreciating diverse skills and contributions.
Example Lesson: Courage to confront fears
Explanation: Characters in the story often face frightening situations but find the bravery to tackle them head-on. This aspect of the story showcases courage in the face of fear.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to face their personal fears, whether it’s speaking in front of the class, trying out for a sports team, or standing up against unfair treatment.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: The book presents characters who frequently solve puzzles and devise strategies, emphasizing logical thinking and creativity.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply these problem-solving strategies in real-life scenarios such as resolving conflicts with friends or figuring out how to manage their time for homework and play.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision making
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the protagonists must make decisions that test their moral compasses, teaching readers about the complexities of right and wrong.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of making thoughtful choices and considering the consequences of their actions in daily life.

A Perilous Journey of Danger and Mayhem #3: The Final Gambit by Christopher Healy