#4 in Case Closed Series
Case Closed #4: Danger on the Dig
on Goodreads (59)
What’s inside...
Pick-your-own path and puzzle-packed mystery collide in the fourth book in Lauren Magaziner’s hilarious and interactive middle grade series as Las Pistas Detective Agency gets its first international case at an archaeological dig in Greece. In this wildly entertaining and interactive adventure, YOU pick which suspects to interview, which questions to ask, and which clues to follow. You pick the path—you crack the case! Carlos and Eliza may be going on separate paths, but their end goal is the same—keep the booby traps from taking their detective agency out! But with tricky puzzles and dozens of impossible choices, they need your help! Can you help Carlos and his friend find the lost treasure . . . and can you protect it from the culprit trying to steal it? Can you help Carlos and his friends unravel the mystery before it’s too late? Or will it be case closed? Middle grade readers will enjoy all four books in this favorite Mystery in the Mansion (#1), Stolen from the Studio (#2), Haunting at the Hotel (#3), and Danger on the Dig (#4)!
Discussion points
What would you do if you were in Carlos's shoes during the dig?
How do you think teamwork helped the characters solve the mystery?
What was your favorite part of the mystery, and why did it stand out to you?
If you could ask any character in the book a question, who and what would it be?
How do you think the setting of the archaeological dig influenced the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story and consider how they would react in similar situations.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and ask your child to give examples of how working together can solve problems, both in the book and in real life.
Identify parts of the book that were particularly exciting or meaningful and explore what made those sections impactful.
Foster curiosity by prompting your child to think of questions they'd ask the characters, enhancing their engagement and critical thinking.
Examine the unique setting of the book, discussing how different environments can affect the characters and the unfolding of the plot.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout 'Danger on the Dig,' characters face various challenges and mysteries that they must solve using critical thinking and collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving techniques in real life scenarios such as working through disagreements with friends or tackling difficult school assignments.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book often rely on each other's unique skills and knowledge to overcome obstacles, emphasizing the importance of working together.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of cooperation and respect for diverse abilities in group projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: Set on an archaeological dig, the book introduces readers to historical artifacts and the significance of preserving history, promoting respect for different cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and explore different cultural backgrounds and history, fostering a more inclusive outlook towards diverse communities.
Example Lesson: Courage and curiosity
Explanation: The young detectives exhibit bravery and a strong desire to uncover the truth, despite the risks involved.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be curious, ask questions, and not shy away from challenging situations, helping them grow intellectually and emotionally.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision making
Explanation: Characters face moral dilemmas that require them to choose between easy options and doing what is right.
Real-World Application: This underscores the importance of integrity for children, teaching them to make ethical choices despite temptations or peer pressure.