#14 in The Boxcar Children Series
The Finders Keepers Mystery
on Goodreads (299)
What’s inside...
The Alden children, Benny, Jessie, Violet and Henry, face another thrilling adventure. This time they find themselves involved in a mystery revolving around an antique shop, and a valuable item that has mysteriously gone missing. They use their wits, teamwork and courage to uncover the truth behind the 'Finders Keepers' mystery. The book continues the tradition of delightful storytelling combined with the teaching of valuable life lessons.
Character compass
Discussion points
What do you think the main characters learned by the end of 'The Finders Keepers Mystery'?
How did the characters work together to solve the mystery, and why is teamwork important?
If you were a character in the book, how would you have tried to solve the mystery?
How do the illustrations help tell the story, and which illustration was your favorite?
What other solutions could the characters have considered in their adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and ideas about the mystery by asking them to guess what might happen next at various points during the story.
Discuss the importance of teamwork as depicted in the book and relate it to real-life examples of when working together can help solve a problem.
Use the illustrations in the book as a talking point to delve deeper into the story, asking your child to describe what they see and how it relates to the storyline.
After reading, ask your child to think about what they would do differently if they were one of the characters, fostering critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout 'The Finders Keepers Mystery,' the characters work together to solve the mystery, demonstrating the importance of collaboration and leveraging each other's strengths.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to listen to others and contribute constructively.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The book showcases the characters using critical thinking and problem-solving skills to figure out the clues leading to the resolution of the mystery.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to approach challenges in their own lives with a problem-solving mindset, whether dealing with puzzles or everyday issues.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Accountability
Explanation: As the characters take on the task of solving the mystery, they demonstrate taking responsibility for their roles in the group and being accountable for their actions.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being responsible for their tasks, such as homework or chores, and understanding the impact of their actions on others.
Example Lesson: Importance of Honesty
Explanation: In the narrative, honesty is highlighted when characters face the moral dilemma of returning a found item versus keeping it for themselves.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the value of honesty and integrity, encouraging them to always tell the truth and return items that are not theirs.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The characters often put themselves in others' shoes to understand different perspectives, which is crucial in solving the mystery.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be empathetic towards their peers and to consider other viewpoints, which can help in resolving conflicts and building stronger relationships.