Bus Station Mystery (The Boxcar Children Mysteries)
#18 of 164 in The Boxcar Children Series
What’s inside...
The Aldens are bound for the Science and Hobby Fair, but when a bad storm hits, they're forced to stay in the bus station. Before they know it, the Boxcar Children are in the middle of a mystery involving a polluted river, two strange boys, and a bus station manager who knows more than anyone suspects.
Character compass
Henry Alden
Violet Alden
Jessie Alden
Benny Alden
Discussion points
What do you think made the mystery at the bus station intriguing? How would you have tried to solve it?
How do the Alden children work together to uncover clues? What can we learn from their teamwork?
What role do you think trust plays in solving mysteries? Can you think of a time you had to trust someone?
What are some of the different emotions the characters experience in the story? Have you ever felt any of these?
If you were to add another character to the story, who would they be and how would they help solve the mystery?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story, asking what they would do differently and why.
Discuss the importance of collaboration and how different strengths can work together to solve problems, relating it back to the children's teamwork in the book.
Talk about the value of trust and honesty in any relationship, drawing parallels to the characters' interactions within the story.
Explore the emotions felt by the characters to enhance empathy—ask your child to share a time they felt something similar and how they handled it.
Stimulate creativity by having your child invent a new character or an alternative ending to the mystery.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: Throughout 'Bus Station Mystery,' the Boxcar Children work together to solve the mystery, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by collaborating with classmates on projects or working together with siblings at home, learning to value each other's input and strengths.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The characters use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to follow clues and unravel the mystery, showcasing the importance of analytical thinking.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach challenges in school or in social settings with a logical and thoughtful mindset, helping them navigate complex situations.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Accountability
Explanation: The children in the story take responsibility for their own actions and decisions while solving the mystery, emphasizing accountability.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to take responsibility for their homework, chores and actions, understanding that their choices have consequences.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The mystery at the bus station sparks curiosity in the Boxcar Children, driving them to learn more and seek out information.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to explore new topics, ask questions in class, or undertake new hobbies and interests, enriching their education and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As they uncover the stories and backgrounds of other characters, the Boxcar Children exhibit empathy, learning to understand various perspectives.
Real-World Application: This can help children in developing deeper connections with friends and being considerate of different viewpoints and emotions in their interactions.