Claudia and the Great Search
#33 of 131 in The Baby-Sitters Club Series
on Goodreads (1,970)
What’s inside...
The book follows Claudia's journey as she searches for her real parents, convinced she was adopted due to her stark differences from her family. Claudia's curiosity is piqued by her distinct appearance compared to her sister and the lack of baby pictures of herself. As she delves deeper, she can't find her birth certificate or birth announcement, raising more suspicions. Throughout the process, Claudia learns valuable lessons about family and friendship.
Character compass
Claudia Kishi
Janine Kishi
Mrs. Kishi
Mr. Kishi
Discussion points
What do you think Claudia felt when she was searching for her real sister? How would you feel in her situation?
Why is family important to Claudia? Can you think of a time when our family helped or supported you?
Claudia learns a lot about her family history during her search. What have you learned about our family that you find interesting?
If you were to meet a long-lost relative, what would you want to ask them or do together?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about family and belonging, which are central themes in the book.
Discuss the importance of family history and share stories from your own family's past to deepen the connection with the child.
Invite your child to imagine their own adventurous quest. Ask what they would seek and why, linking it back to Claudia's search in the story.
Relate the book’s themes to everyday life, helping your child see the relevance of the story to their own experiences and relationships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of honesty
Explanation: Claudia discovers the importance of honesty as she reveals her true feelings and thoughts to her family and friends.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express their feelings truthfully to build stronger relationships with those around them.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: In her quest, Claudia faces several challenges but remains determined, showcasing the virtue of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to stay determined in their pursuits, whether academic or personal, despite obstacles.
Example Lesson: Understanding family dynamics
Explanation: The story explores Claudia's interactions with different family members, highlighting the complexities of familial relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can gain insights into handling various family situations and dynamics with empathy and understanding.