Scarlett Undercover
on Goodreads (1,221)
What’s inside...
Meet Scarlett, a smart, sarcastic fifteen-year-old, ready to take on crime in her hometown. When Scarlett agrees to investigate a local boy's suicide, she figures she's in for an easy case and a quick buck. But it doesn't take long for suicide to start looking a lot like murder. As Scarlett finds herself deep in a world of cults, curses, and the seemingly supernatural, she discovers that her own family secrets may have more to do with the situation than she thinks. Cracking the case could lead to solving her father's murder. Jennifer Latham delivers a compelling story and a character to remember in this one-of-a-kind debut novel.
Age
11-12
Length
320 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Scarlett
Reem
Discussion points
What do you think motivates Scarlett to become a detective?
How does Scarlett's cultural background influence her decisions and actions throughout the story?
What challenges does Scarlett face and how does she overcome them?
How do the relationships in the book affect Scarlett’s journey?
In what ways do you think you are similar or different from Scarlett?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own problem-solving skills with Scarlett’s detective techniques while discussing the book.
Discuss the importance of cultural identity and how it shapes our perspectives, drawing parallels with Scarlett's experiences.
Talk about resilience and courage in overcoming challenges, using Scarlett's adventures and conflicts as a reference point.
Highlight the impact of friendship and trust as depicted in the story, and relate it to your child’s personal experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Scarlett, the protagonist, demonstrates perseverance as she uncovers clues and solves mysteries despite facing challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persisting through difficulties in their own lives, whether in solving problems at school or in personal projects.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: The story incorporates elements from Scarlett’s diverse cultural background, enriching the narrative and providing a broader perspective.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and respect various cultures, fostering a more inclusive attitude towards diversity in their community.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: Throughout the book, Scarlett uses critical thinking to piece together information and solve the case.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to approach problems thoughtfully and make informed decisions in real-world scenarios.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Scarlett shows empathy towards characters who are different or in difficult situations, helping to resolve conflicts.
Real-World Application: Teaching children to be empathetic can improve their interpersonal relationships and social interactions at school and at home.