The Boxcar Children Series
The Hockey Mystery
on Goodreads (553)
What’s inside...
When a professional hockey player comes to Greenfield with plans to build an ice skating rink, the Alden children suspect that someone in town wants to stop the project.
Age
7-10
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the characters to solve the hockey mystery?
How did teamwork play a role in uncovering the mystery?
What would you have done differently if you were one of the characters?
How do the characters' actions show their commitment to fairness and sportsmanship?
What lessons can we learn about honesty and integrity from the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about the story by sharing your own opinions and feelings about the characters and the plot.
Ask your child to relate the events in the book to real-life situations, like how they would handle a mystery at school or in sports.
Link the themes of the book, such as teamwork and honesty, to your child’s everyday experiences, discussing how they can apply these values in their own life.
After reading, recap the story with your child by asking them to summarize the mystery and solution, reinforcing their understanding and retention.
Use the book as an opportunity to discuss the importance of sportsmanship, both in sports and in other areas of life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: In 'The Hockey Mystery,' the children work together to solve the mystery of the missing hockey gear, demonstrating effective teamwork and cooperation.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working collaboratively in group projects at school or in sports, learning that collective effort often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The book showcases the characters using their problem-solving skills to figure out the mystery, encouraging readers to think critically and analytically.
Real-World Application: Kids can use similar problem-solving approaches when faced with challenges in their own lives, such as resolving conflicts with peers or tackling difficult homework.
Example Lesson: Honesty
Explanation: As the story unfolds, honesty is highlighted as a key element in solving the mystery and maintaining trust among characters.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of honesty in building and maintaining trustworthy relationships in their everyday interactions with friends and family.
Example Lesson: The value of persistence
Explanation: Throughout 'The Hockey Mystery', the characters demonstrate persistence as they do not give up until the mystery is solved, showing that perseverance is crucial.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of persisting in their endeavors, whether it be improving in a sport, mastering a new skill, or overcoming personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Respect for others’ property
Explanation: The book addresses the consequences of taking items that do not belong to you, emphasizing respect for others’ belongings.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to apply this respect by taking care of shared spaces and items both at home and in public areas, fostering a community of respect and consideration.