The Big Dip (Orca Currents)
Orca Currents Series
on Goodreads (56)
What’s inside...
Joe and his friend Skip are enjoying the thrill of the Big Dip, a famous rollercoaster, until they learn the old man in front of them has been shot. The old man mutters with his dying breath something about getting a Margaret Rose to the police. Joe leaves the crime scene to get on with his life. But someone is desperate for the Margaret Rose and thinks Joe has it. When his sister is kidnapped, Joe is in a race against time to solve the puzzle.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Dylan to investigate the mystery at the swimming pool?
How did Dylan's actions show bravery or creativity throughout the story?
What would you have done if you were in Dylan's situation at the pool?
How do the characters in 'The Big Dip' demonstrate teamwork or friendship?
What did you learn about overcoming fears from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before beginning the discussion, share a personal story about a time you faced a challenge or mystery, which can help your child relate more to Dylan's experiences.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book they found exciting or important, and use it as a springboard for discussing the story's themes.
Praise your child's thoughts and insights during the discussion to encourage their confidence in expressing their views.
Relate the themes of the book, such as courage and curiosity, to real-life situations your child might encounter, to make the discussion more relevant.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The protagonist encounters numerous obstacles while diving, yet continues to persevere. This highlights the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay determined and persist, even when facing difficulties in schoolwork or personal pursuits.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters must work together to solve problems and achieve their goals, emphasizing the importance of collaboration.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of cooperating with others, whether in classroom projects, sports teams, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Overcoming fears
Explanation: Characters in the story face and overcome their fears, particularly relating to diving, which teaches courage and self-confidence.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their own fears, be it trying new activities, or overcoming everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The setting under the sea and interaction with marine life educate about the beauty and fragility of underwater ecosystems, promoting environmental awareness.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the significance of protecting the environment and may be motivated to participate in conservation efforts or learn more about marine life.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity and learning
Explanation: The protagonist’s quest for knowledge about diving and the marine world drives the narrative, underscoring the joy and value found in learning new things.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore new subjects, ask questions, and embrace learning both in and outside of school.