The Animal Shelter Mystery (The Boxcar Children Mysteries)
#22 of 164 in The Boxcar Children Series
on Goodreads (1,592)
What’s inside...
The Aldens must find a way to solve many mysteries, and all before 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday! Strange things are happening in Greenfield where the Boxcar Children live. Stray cats and dogs appear on doorsteps, but the animal shelter is forced to close, and a nice old woman disappears. Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny are very worried about Mrs. Newcombe. Is she in danger? Who are the strange men lurking around her house? And what are they going to do with all the animals who need homes, including a little cat they call Patches?
Character compass
Henry Alden
Violet Alden
Jessie Alden
Benny Alden
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the Boxcar children to help at the animal shelter?
How did the children's actions make a difference in the lives of the animals at the shelter?
Why is teamwork important when trying to solve a mystery or help others?
How did the characters show kindness and responsibility throughout the story?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone or an animal in need? How did it make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to consider the feelings of both the animals and the characters in the book.
Highlight the importance of community involvement by discussing how the children's efforts at the shelter contributed to their local community.
Stress the value of teamwork by pointing out moments in the book where cooperation led to success.
Use examples from the book to discuss the traits of responsibility and kindness, and ask your child how they can demonstrate these traits in their own life.
After reading, consider visiting a local animal shelter to show real-life application of the book’s themes and to enhance your child’s understanding and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion and empathy
Explanation: In 'The Animal Shelter Mystery,' the Alden children demonstrate care and concern for the animals at the shelter, showcasing their ability to empathize with creatures in need.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these lessons by learning to treat animals with kindness and understanding, developing a lifelong respect for living beings.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, the children encounter various puzzles that they need to solve to help the shelter. Their critical thinking and resourcefulness are key to finding solutions.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and apply problem-solving skills in their own lives, whether dealing with school projects or everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: The Aldens work together to solve the mystery and help the animal shelter, demonstrating that teamwork can lead to a greater impact than working alone.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in group activities at school or in sports, teaching kids the importance of working cooperatively.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Taking care of animals at the shelter teaches the children about responsibility and the need to be dependable and thorough in tasks.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being responsible for their own tasks, such as homework, chores, and caring for pets.
Example Lesson: Community involvement
Explanation: The book highlights the importance of community support for facilities like animal shelters and encourages the children to engage with their local community.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to partake in community service or support community projects, instilling a sense of civic duty and pride.