Hide and Geek
#1 of 2 in Hide and Geek Series
on Goodreads (293)
What’s inside...
A puzzlemaker's last clue. A friendship's last chance. The GEEKs: Gina, Edgar, Elena, and Kevin have been best friends for as long as they can remember. So when their arch-nemesis points out that their initials make them literally GEEKs, they decide to go with it. The problem: The GEEKs' hometown of Elmwood was once the headquarters of the famous toymaker Maxine Van Houten. Her popular puzzle sphere, the Bamboozler, put the town on the map. But Maxine passed away long ago. Now the toy factory is shutting down, and Elena's mom and Kevin's dad are losing their jobs. They might have to move--and that would mean splitting up the GEEKs! The quest: Maxine left one final puzzle, a treasure hunt that could save the town and keep the friends together. But only those who know and love Elmwood best will be able to solve it. GEEKs to the rescue!
Character compass
Gina
Kevin
Edgar
Elena
Discussion points
What do you think the main characters learned about friendship throughout the story?
How did teamwork help the characters solve the mysteries they encountered?
If you were a part of the geek squad, how would you contribute to solving puzzles?
Can you think of a time when you felt like an outsider, like some characters in the book, and how you overcame it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and relate the characters' experiences to their own. Use examples from the book to discuss the value of diversity and cooperation. Highlight how each character’s unique skills contributed to the group, promoting the idea that everyone has something special to offer.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Hide and Geek,' the characters work together to solve a series of puzzles throughout the book, demonstrating the importance of cooperation and the combined effort of a group.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate with their peers to achieve a common goal.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The characters in the book support and motivate each other despite challenges, highlighting the value of true friendship.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to be supportive and caring friends in their own lives, helping them to build strong, supportive relationships with their peers.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The book features a variety of puzzles that the characters must solve to progress in their adventure, which showcases effective problem-solving approaches.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills in their everyday tasks and school work.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: As the characters face unknown challenges, they learn to overcome their fears, teaching the reader about the importance of being brave in the face of adversity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and challenges courageously, whether it's trying new activities or standing up for themselves or others.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The book's imaginative setting and puzzles stimulate creative thinking, as the characters think outside the box to solve their challenges.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to use their creativity to think of unique solutions in their playtime or academic tasks.