High-rise Mystery
#1 of 2 in High-Rise Mysteries Series
on Goodreads (1,192)
What’s inside...
The detective duo everyone is dying to meet! Summer in London is hot, the hottest on record, and there's been a murder in THE TRI: the high-rise home to resident know-it-alls, Nik and Norva. Who better to solve the case? Armed with curiosity, home-turf knowledge and unlimited time - until the end of the summer holidays anyway. The first whodunnit in a new mystery series by Sharna Jackson.
Character compass
Nik
Norva
Dad
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the characters to solve the mystery?
How do the settings in the book contribute to the suspense of the story?
What traits do you admire in the main characters, and why?
If you were in the story, how would you have reacted to the mystery?
What lessons can we learn about teamwork and perseverance from the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare the book's world to their own experiences. This can deepen their understanding and personal connection to the story.
Highlight the importance of the moral lessons in the story, such as bravery and friendship, and ask how your child can apply these in their own life.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at pivotal moments in the book to keep them engaged and thinking critically.
After discussing the book, involve your child in a creative activity like drawing a scene from the book or writing their own mystery story. This can help internalize the themes and characters.
Use expressive reading to dramatize the suspenseful parts of the book, making the reading experience more immersive and stimulating for your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: As the protagonists, Nik and Norva, uncover clues to solve a murder mystery, children see the importance of paying attention to detail and piecing together information logically.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach problems methodically, enhancing their ability to analyze situations and make informed decisions in school projects or everyday dilemmas.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the investigation, Nik and Norva collaborate, teaching children that working together can lead to success, even in challenging situations.
Real-World Application: This encourages kids to value cooperative group activities and appreciate diverse perspectives, whether in team sports, group studies, or family tasks.
Example Lesson: Importance of community awareness
Explanation: The story is set in a tight-knit community, showing children the significance of being aware of and involved in their local environment.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to participate in community activities, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility towards their environment.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As the sisters interact with different suspects and residents, children see how understanding different viewpoints and backgrounds is crucial.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children develop empathy and improve their interpersonal relationships, enabling them to interact harmoniously with others.
Example Lesson: Persistence and resilience
Explanation: The journey to solve the mystery is filled with setbacks. Nik and Norva’s perseverance teaches children the value of resilience in the face of obstacles.
Real-World Application: This prepares children to persist in their goals despite difficulties, be it in academics, personal projects, or future careers.