Search for the Glowing Hand
#37 in Judy Bolton Mystery Series
on Goodreads (32)
What’s inside...
The Judy Bolton series, written over thirty-five years from 1932-1967, consists of thirty-eight volumes and is celebrated as one of the most successful and enduring girls' series ever published. Renowned for its engaging plots, thrilling stories, realism, and social commentary, the series stands out as characters like Judy and her friends age and mature, tackling important social issues. Judy is often viewed as a feminist icon—smart, capable, courageous, nurturing, and steadfast in her convictions, making her an ideal role model. In one of the stories, Judy's curiosity is piqued by a suspicious fire over a furniture store and a false alarm that sends fire engines to the wrong location. Her investigation deepens when she discovers she is not alone in her house and finds a young boy, Ken, who is wrongly accused of a crime. As Judy and her friend Peter help Ken, they confront a group called the Wasps who are inciting social and religious persecution. Judy and Peter must find a way to stop them before the city becomes divided.
Character compass
Judy Bolton
Peter Dobbs
Discussion points
What do you think the glowing hand symbolizes in the story?
How did the characters' actions lead to the resolution of the mystery?
What would you have done differently if you were in Judy's shoes?
How did Judy's friendships influence the outcome of the adventure?
What feelings did you experience while reading about the glowing hand's mystery?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. This encourages critical thinking and personal connection to the book.
Discuss the motives and actions of different characters. This helps children understand perspective and empathy.
Relate the story's themes to real-life situations your child might encounter. This makes the discussion more relevant and meaningful.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or different scenarios within the book. This enhances creative thinking and engagement with the text.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: In 'Search for the Glowing Hand,' the characters often have to work together to solve mysteries and face challenges, exemplifying the effectiveness of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and value each other's contributions.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and problem-solving
Explanation: The protagonist's quest to uncover the truth behind the glowing hand demonstrates the significance of curiosity and using analytical skills to address problems.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to ask questions and seek answers in their studies and daily interactions, enhancing their critical thinking abilities.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters encounter various obstacles that they overcome by being brave and steadfast.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own challenges with courage, be it trying new activities or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: Importance of honesty
Explanation: The characters’ commitment to the truth, despite the difficulties it sometimes brings, underscores the importance of being honest.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of honesty in building trust and developing strong relationships with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and accountability
Explanation: The young characters in the story take responsibility for their actions and learn from their mistakes, portraying the growth that comes from accountability.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of accepting responsibility for their actions and learning from the consequences to make better decisions in the future.