The Hardy Boys Series
The Disappearance
on Goodreads (440)
What’s inside...
This novel centers on the unlikely friendship between two boys, Jacob Mueller and Mike McCallum. Jacob seems to be from a different world. After mystifying experts and doctors, who finally decide that he is an elective mute, Jacob ends up in a juvenile group home, isolated and withdrawn, the butt of teasing by the other kids. Mike exists in his own private hell. Scarred physically and emotionally after the murder of his younger brother, his one aim is to survive the system until he is legally old enough to get out. He uses his horrific appearance, imposing size, sharp intelligence, and a calculated brutality to keep everyone at bay—until he encounters Jacob. Almost despite himself, Mike is fascinated by Jacob, particularly the way in which he seems able to shut out the world around him. This fascination deepens and becomes tinged by a mixture of awe and horror when Jacob starts to talk, and appears to have knowledge of Mike's past, and in particular of his dead brother. Mike takes it upon himself to solve the puzzle that is Jacob Mueller, and when he comes to what seems to him to be the impossible conclusion that Jacob is from another time, he makes it his mission to return him home. In order to do so, Mike has to make hard choices: choices which could offer the chance of redemption, but only at great cost.
Age
8-11
Length
208 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Discussion points
How did you feel about the way the characters handled the mystery in the story?
What would you have done differently if you were in the same situation as the main character?
What do you think is the most important message the author is trying to convey through this story?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in today's world?
Can you think of a time when you had to solve a mystery or a problem on your own? How did it go?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Validate their responses, whether they are emotional reactions to the plot or opinions about the characters' decisions. Ask them to draw parallels between the mystery in the story and any real-life challenges they've faced. This not only deepens their understanding but also enhances their problem-solving skills. Finally, emphasize the value of persistence and courage as demonstrated by the characters, relating them back to personal growth and resilience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'The Disappearance,' the characters face various personal challenges that teach readers to put themselves in others’ shoes and understand different perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing more patience and kindness towards their classmates or siblings who may be going through tough situations.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: The story highlights how working together can solve problems that seem unsolvable alone, emphasizing the strength found in unity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to participate in group activities at school and collaborate with others to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face the Unknown
Explanation: Characters in the book often take brave actions despite being afraid, teaching that courage isn’t the absence of fear, but the decision to face it head-on.
Real-World Application: Kids can remember this lesson when they face new challenges or fears, such as trying out for a sports team or speaking in front of their class.
Example Lesson: The Value of Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters encounter setbacks, yet they persist, demonstrating that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to keep trying in their studies, hobbies, or relationships, even when things get difficult.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: The book showcases how characters adapt to changes and recover from losses, illustrating the power of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to adapt to changes such as moving to a new school or coping with the loss of a pet, using the strategies modeled by the characters.