The Absent Author (A to Z Mysteries)
#1 of 26 in A to Z Mysteries Series
What’s inside...
A famous author, Wallis Wallace, is scheduled for a book signing event in Green Lawn, but mysteriously goes missing. The three young detectives, Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose, follow clues, hunt for secret messages, and use their unique skills to uncover the mystery of the absent author. This book is part of the A to Z Mysteries series, which has been captivating young readers with engaging mysteries and encouraging reading with its collection of books from A to Z along with super editions. With over 8 million copies in print, the A to Z Mysteries have been a favorite among chapter book readers, and now return with a new refreshed look.
Character compass
Dink Duncan
Ruth Rose Hathaway
Wallis Wallace
Josh Pinto
Discussion points
What do you think inspired Dink to become a detective?
How do you feel about Wallace Wallice's decision to vanish, and what would you do if you were one of the characters?
Can you think of a different ending for the story? How would you change it?
What qualities do Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose have that make them good detectives?
If you were going to write a mystery story, what mystery would you want to solve?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think like a detective. Ask them to predict what might happen next in the story and explain their reasoning.
Discuss the importance of teamwork as shown by Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose. Talk about how working together can help solve problems.
Help them connect the story to their own experiences. Ask if they have ever solved a mystery, even a small one, and how they felt about it.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to write or draw a short mystery story, using Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose as characters.
Praise your child’s responses to promote confidence in expressing their thoughts and ideas about the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The characters in 'The Absent Author' use clues and critical thinking to solve the mystery of a missing writer. They analyze situations and make decisions based on the information gathered.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving skills at school or in social settings, enhancing their ability to think critically and make informed decisions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters collaborate and share their findings to solve the mystery together. They show that teamwork can lead to success and better solutions.
Real-World Application: Teamwork skills can help children work cooperatively in group projects, sports, and other collaborative activities, promoting a sense of community and shared accomplishment.
Example Lesson: Importance of Reading and Research
Explanation: The young detectives gather information by reading and researching, which plays a crucial role in solving the mystery. This highlights the value of being well-informed and resourceful.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to seek knowledge through reading and research, which can aid them academically and ignite a lifelong passion for learning.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The protagonists' quest to uncover the truth about the absent author demonstrates curiosity and a drive to explore unknown situations.
Real-World Application: Fostering curiosity can lead children to explore new hobbies, ask insightful questions in class, and explore the world around them with enthusiasm and confidence.
Example Lesson: Integrity
Explanation: Despite various challenges and misleading clues, the characters maintain honesty and ethical behavior throughout their investigation.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of being truthful and maintaining moral values, even when faced with difficult choices or tempting situations.