Mike's Mystery
#5 of 164 in The Boxcar Children Series
What’s inside...
Benny and his friend Mike are in trouble when they are curious about a uranium mine.
Character compass
Henry Alden
Violet Alden
Jessie Alden
Benny Alden
Mike
Discussion points
What do you think Mike felt when he discovered the mystery?
How would you solve the mystery if you were one of the characters?
Why is teamwork important when solving problems?
What would you have done differently than the characters in the story?
How do the characters change from the beginning to the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine being in the story and ask how they would react in similar situations.
Discuss the importance of cooperation and asking for help when faced with a challenge, as shown in the book.
Highlight the character development and ask your child about ways they have grown or changed over time.
After reading, engage your child in a creative activity like drawing their favorite scene or writing a continuation of the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout 'Mike's Mystery', the characters encounter various challenges that require critical thinking and collaboration to solve.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving methods in school projects or in resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the story frequently work together, demonstrating that cooperation can lead to successful outcomes.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to participate in team activities and understand the value of working with others towards a common goal.
Example Lesson: Value of curiosity and asking questions
Explanation: The protagonist's quest for answers about the mystery encourages a healthy curiosity and eagerness to learn more.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to ask questions about the world around them and seek out information, enhancing their knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Developing trust and building friendships
Explanation: As the story unfolds, the characters develop strong bonds of trust that are crucial for solving the mystery together.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of forming and maintaining trusting relationships with friends and family members.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of adversity
Explanation: Despite obstacles, the characters persist in their quest to solve the mystery, showcasing resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of not giving up easily, equipping them to handle challenges in their academic and personal lives.