The Guardians of the Hidden Scepter (Guardians (Bonneville Books))
#1 of 5 in The Guardians Series
on Goodreads (149)
What’s inside...
Fifteen-year-old Amber Rawson, who has a passion for archaeology and a talent for deciphering ancient codes, must find the ancient Tebah Stick, a biblical artifact capable of global destruction, and save her kidnapped archaeology instructor. Amber never dreamed her archaeology class would turn into a top secret mission that would take her across the globe, but when her teacher goes missing, Amber realizes it's up to her to protect the Hidden Scepter or risk unleashing an ancient power too terrifying to imagine. This guaranteed page-turner from the bestselling author of the Hashbrown Winters series is perfect for the adventurer in your family.
Character compass
Amber Rawson
Dr. Jacob Laboutin
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make a good guardian based on the characters in the story?
How do the guardians in the story show courage and teamwork?
If you had a magical scepter, what powers would you want it to have and why?
Which part of the adventure did you find most exciting or surprising?
How do you think the characters changed from the beginning to the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by asking how they would react in similar situations.
Discuss the moral dilemmas faced by the characters to enhance ethical and critical thinking.
Highlight the theme of teamwork by pointing out moments where collaboration led to success within the story.
Foster creativity by asking your child to imagine alternative endings or continuations of the story.
Use expressive reading to make the story come alive, changing your tone of voice for different characters and events.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in 'The Guardians of the Hidden Scepter' must work together to overcome obstacles and solve the mystery of the ancient artifact. This demonstrates that collaboration is key to achieving common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in group projects at school or in team sports, learning that cooperation and listening to others can lead to successful outcomes.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, the young guardians face numerous challenges that test their bravery. Their courage in these situations shows readers that it is possible to confront and overcome fears.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to face their own fears, be it trying out for a school play, standing up against bullying, or learning to swim.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and the consequences of actions
Explanation: The protagonists learn that their actions have impacts, especially when dealing with powerful historical artifacts. This teaches the significance of being responsible for one's actions.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to think about the consequences before acting, whether it's about doing their homework on time or being mindful about how they treat their peers.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: The guardians face many setbacks on their quest, but they remain determined and do not give up. This resilience emphasizes the value of perseverance through difficulties.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of persisting through challenges, such as mastering a new skill or dealing with academic struggles.
Example Lesson: The importance of knowledge and learning
Explanation: To solve the mystery, the young characters must research and learn about history and mythology. This underscores the importance of education and seeking knowledge.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore books, ask questions, and make learning a lifelong habit to better understand the world around them.