#17 in Nancy Drew Series
The Clue in the Old Stagecoach
on Goodreads (6,209)
What’s inside...
In the 37th book of the Nancy Drew Mystery Stories, Nancy, Bess, and George spend an exciting summer at a historic colonial inn in Virginia. There Nancy becomes involved in a baffling mystery involving a historical stagecoach and its treasure. The girls experience adventures involving a ghostly apparition, kidnapping, and secret codes as they track down the mystery of the old stagecoach.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the characters to solve the mystery of the old stagecoach?
How do you think the characters felt when they encountered challenges? What would you do in their situation?
What lessons can we learn about teamwork and persistence from the characters' adventures?
In what ways do the settings of the story impact the mystery's unfolding?
How do the characters change from the beginning to the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that encourage your child to think deeply about the plot and the characters’ motivations.
Connect the themes of the book to your child’s experiences, asking how they would react in similar situations.
Discuss the problem-solving techniques used by the characters and encourage your child to think of alternative solutions.
Highlight the historical aspects of the setting and discuss how it influences the characters’ actions and the storyline.
After reading, ask your child to summarize the key points of the book to reinforce comprehension and recall.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and critical thinking
Explanation: Throughout 'The Clue in the Old Stagecoach', the protagonist Nancy Drew uses her problem-solving skills to decipher clues and solve the mystery surrounding the stagecoach.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving techniques in everyday challenges, learning to analyze situations and think critically to find solutions.
Example Lesson: The importance of historical preservation
Explanation: The story emphasizes the significance of preserving historical artifacts and the stories they hold, as Nancy uncovers the history related to the old stagecoach.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to respect and value historical objects and sites in their community, fostering a sense of pride and continuity with the past.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Nancy often collaborates with others to gather information and solve the mystery, demonstrating that teamwork can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working together with peers or family members to achieve common goals, enhancing interpersonal skills and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and determination
Explanation: Despite facing challenges, Nancy remains determined to solve the mystery, showcasing her perseverance.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to stay committed to their tasks or goals, even when they encounter difficulties, thereby building resilience.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision-making
Explanation: Nancy faces several moral dilemmas and chooses to take the high road even when easier options are available, highlighting ethical decision-making.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of making ethical choices and considering the consequences of their actions in daily life.