Secret Letters at Trebizon: {The Trebizon Boarding School Series}
#13 in Trebizon Series
on Goodreads (164)
What’s inside...
Rebecca Mason, a 5th-year student at Trebizon, is preparing for her mock GCSE exams when she discovers that her papers have gone missing from her locker. As she investigates, she realizes that someone has been tampering with her personal letters, discussing her feelings for her boyfriend, Robbie, and her friend, Cliff. The mystery deepens as her locker appears to be ransacked and her letters to her boyfriend and French pen-friend, Emmanuelle, have been read. Despite never having met, Rebecca and Emmanuelle share a sisterly bond and confide their secrets in each other. Rebecca's invasion of privacy becomes even more unsettling when her bedside locker is raided and Emmanuelle's letters are tampered with. Determined to resolve this before meeting Emmanuelle in Paris, Rebecca navigates this complex mystery with the help of her friends and the indomitable spirit characteristic of Trebizon students.
Character compass
Rebecca Mason
Sue Murdoch
Patricia 'Tish' Anderson
Discussion points
What do you think Rebecca felt when she discovered the secret letters? How would you feel in her situation?
How do the friendships in the book change or grow because of the secrets? Have you ever had a secret that affected a friendship?
What did you learn about trust and honesty from the characters' experiences at Trebizon?
Which character do you relate to the most and why?
How do you think the story would change if it were set in today's world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts about the book’s themes and characters to make your child feel comfortable expressing their opinions.
Encourage your child to think about how the characters’ actions and dilemmas relate to their own life experiences.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to delve deeper into their understanding and interpretation of the story.
Praise your child’s insights and contributions to the discussion to build their confidence and encourage a love for reading and analysis.
Link discussions to real-life scenarios or current events to make the themes of the book more relatable and relevant.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Honesty
Explanation: In 'Secret Letters at Trebizon', the characters navigate various challenges that revolve around secrets and honesty. Through these experiences, the story highlights how honesty fosters trust and stronger relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by being truthful in their interactions, which will help them build trust and credibility among friends and family members.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: The book portrays deep and supportive friendships among the students at Trebizon. It illustrates how friends can help one overcome difficulties and bring joy to our lives.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to value and nurture friendships, understanding the role friends play in supporting and uplifting each other during tough times.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Challenges
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters face various personal and academic challenges. The story demonstrates how they muster the courage to address and overcome these obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn to confront their own challenges, whether at school or within personal relationships, and understand that courage is key to overcoming adversities.