The Dark Days of Hamburger Halpin
on Goodreads (1,528)
What’s inside...
Being a hefty, deaf newcomer almost makes Will Halpin the least popular guy at Coaler High. But when he befriends the only guy less popular than him, the dork-namic duo has the smarts and guts to figure out who knocked off the star quarterback. Will can’t hear what’s going on, but he’s a great observer. So, who did it? And why does that guy talk to his fingers? And will the beautiful girl ever notice him? (Okay, so Will’s interested in more than just murder . . .) Those who prefer their heroes to be not-so-usual and with a side of wiseguy will gobble up this witty, geeks-rule debut. From the Hardcover edition.
Age
11-12
Length
248 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Will Halpin
Devon Smiley
Discussion points
How do you think Will Halpin felt being the only deaf student at his school? What are some ways he tried to fit in?
What role does friendship play in this story? Do you think Will’s friendships influenced his actions?
How does Will's experience as a detective change throughout the book? What skills does he use to solve the mystery?
What did you learn about the challenges faced by people with disabilities through Will’s character?
If you were in Will’s shoes, how would you handle the situations he faced at school and while solving the mystery?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to imagine themselves in Will’s situation and discuss different emotions they might feel.
Highlight the importance of inclusion and understanding diversity through discussions about Will’s experiences in school.
Promote critical thinking by discussing the clues Will uncovers and asking your child what they would do next in the investigation.
Foster problem-solving skills by having your child think of alternative solutions to the challenges Will faces in the story.
Strengthen communication skills by engaging in a back-and-forth dialogue about the themes and characters, encouraging your child to express their thoughts and opinions clearly.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The protagonist, Will Halpin, who is deaf, navigates life in a mainstream high school, allowing readers to experience the challenges he faces and the adaptations he makes.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to understand and empathize with peers who might have disabilities or different life experiences, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Will forms friendships that prove crucial in solving a mystery and in his personal growth, highlighting the value of supportive relationships.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the significance of building and maintaining positive relationships, and how teamwork can help solve problems.
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: Will’s journey includes moments of self-doubt and acceptance, illustrating his growth in accepting his identity as a deaf individual without seeing it as a limitation.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to embrace their unique traits and challenges, fostering a positive self-image.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The protagonist uses his keen observational skills and intelligence to unravel the mystery, showcasing effective problem-solving strategies.
Real-World Application: Encourages critical thinking and applying logical reasoning to overcome challenges and conflicts in daily life.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: Will faces numerous social and personal challenges but his resilience in overcoming these adversities is a central theme.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to persevere through their own difficulties, teaching them the value of resilience and bravery.