Deadlock
A Darcie Lock Adventure Series
on Goodreads (3)
What’s inside...
Perfect for fans of Alex Rider and Artemis Fowl, Simon Fox's latest action-packed thriller. Archie Blake thought his policeman father teaching him how to pick locks and open safes was just a bit of fun. But when a diamond necklace is stolen and his dad is arrested, Archie realizes the only way to prove his father's innocence is to use the skills his dad taught him to find the real thief.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-12
Length
123 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Cat's actions throughout the story? How would you feel in her situation?
Deadlock explores themes of courage and friendship. Can you think of a time you had to be brave for a friend?
How do the characters in the book change from the beginning to the end? What do you think caused these changes?
The story is set in a historical backdrop. How does the setting influence the events and characters?
If you could give advice to any character in Deadlock, who would it be and what would you say?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book’s characters and their decisions. Ask open-ended questions that promote empathy and understanding. Discuss the historical context of the story to enhance comprehension and relate it to modern times, making it more relevant. Let your child draw parallels between their experiences and those of the characters to deepen their connection with the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Deadlock', characters must work together to overcome challenges, demonstrating that teamwork is essential for success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities and learning to collaborate with peers in school projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Valuing different perspectives
Explanation: The diverse characters in 'Deadlock' bring unique viewpoints that help solve problems, showing that different perspectives are valuable.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to listen to and respect different opinions from friends or classmates, understanding that everyone has something important to contribute.
Example Lesson: The power of resilience
Explanation: Throughout 'Deadlock', characters face setbacks but continue to persevere, highlighting the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to keep trying in the face of difficulties, whether it be in learning new skills, dealing with personal setbacks, or managing schoolwork.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision making
Explanation: As characters in 'Deadlock' encounter moral dilemmas, they must make decisions that reflect their values, teaching ethical decision-making.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to think critically about right and wrong and make ethical choices in their interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Embracing change
Explanation: The plot of 'Deadlock' is driven by changes in the characters’ lives, showing the importance of adapting to new situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that change is a part of life and learning to adapt is crucial for personal growth and happiness.