The Detention Detectives
#1 of 3 in The Detention Detectives Series
on Goodreads (85)
What’s inside...
Misfits and murder meet in this brilliantly fun new mystery series by debut author Lis Jardine. A perfect next read for fans of The High-Rise Mysteries, Anisha, Accidental Detective and Murder Most Unladylike. Finding a dead body at my new school was a pretty rubbish way to start. But actually getting mixed up in the case? I was bound to get into deep, deep trouble for that! Murder comes to Hanbridge High, and three Year Seven misfits want to solve the case. New boy Jonno hopes playing detective will convince his parents that moving to Hanbridge was a big mistake. School reporter Lydia thinks her news story will sweep everything else off the front page. And young carer Daniel needs the police to arrest the right culprit - for his mum’s sake. They may not be friends, but they're about to become... The Detention Detectives. Brought to you by Penguin.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated each of the Detention Detectives to solve the mystery?
How did the characters in the book show teamwork during their adventures?
Which of the detectives do you relate to the most and why?
What would you have done differently if you were in the same situation as the detectives?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in our hometown?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and opinions about each character’s decisions and actions throughout the book.
Discuss the importance of teamwork as demonstrated in the book, and relate it to real-life situations in your child’s world, like school projects or sports.
Ask your child to draw parallels between the book's setting and your own community, fostering a deeper connection with the story.
After finishing the book, suggest your child to create an alternative ending, nurturing their creativity and perspective-taking.
Highlight the problem-solving strategies used by the Detention Detectives and discuss how your child can use similar approaches in their daily challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'The Detention Detectives,' the diverse group of students must collaborate to solve classroom mysteries, demonstrating effective teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these teamwork skills in group projects at school or in playing sports with friends, learning the importance of working together towards a common goal.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters face various challenges that they solve using critical thinking and creativity, showcasing dynamic problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Kids can use similar problem-solving approaches when faced with conflicts or challenges in their school work or social situations, promoting independent thinking and resilience.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As the characters interact, they learn about each other's backgrounds and perspectives, fostering a sense of empathy.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand and appreciate the feelings and viewpoints of others around them, enhancing their social interactions and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Importance of Integrity
Explanation: The young detectives learn to be honest and uphold strong moral principles during their investigations, highlighting the importance of integrity.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of honesty and ethical behavior in their everyday actions, whether in academic settings, or personal relationships, building a trustworthy character.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Each mystery presents obstacles, yet the Detention Detectives persist until they find a solution, teaching children the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to stay determined and not give up easily on their tasks and goals, whether completing a difficult homework assignment or learning a new skill in sports or arts.