The Maze of Bones
#1 of 11 in The 39 Clues Series
on Goodreads (86,941)
What’s inside...
The Maze of Bones is the first book in The 39 Clues series. It follows the adventures of Amy and Dan Cahill as they travel the world in search of the 39 Clues, a secret that can make them the most powerful people in the world. The siblings must solve riddles, break codes, and navigate dangerous situations to uncover the truth about their family's past. When their beloved aunt, the matriarch of the world's most powerful family, dies, Amy and Dan, orphaned siblings, compete with less honorable Cahill descendants in a race around the world to find cryptic clues to a mysterious fortune. The book includes game cards which the reader may use to play an online version of the treasure hunt.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Amy and Dan Cahill to take on the challenge of finding the 39 Clues? How would you feel in their situation?
Each team in the book has different strengths and weaknesses. Which team do you relate to most and why?
The clues lead the characters to explore various cultures and histories. What was one interesting fact you learned from their adventures?
How do the characters handle setbacks and challenges during their quest? Can you share a time when you faced a challenge and how you dealt with it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s themes and asking your child for their perspective to create an open dialogue.
Encourage your child to put themselves in the characters' shoes to deepen their understanding of the decisions and dilemmas faced.
Discuss the historical and cultural elements presented in the book. Consider using additional resources or visiting a library to explore more about the topics mentioned.
Praise your child for expressing their thoughts and ideas, reinforcing the importance of thoughtful discussion and personal expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: In 'The Maze of Bones', the characters must work together to solve clues and challenges. This cooperative spirit is central to their progress.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these principles at school during group projects or in sports, learning that teamwork can lead to success and mutual benefit.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: The protagonist, Amy, and her brother, Dan, face complex puzzles and mysteries throughout their journey. Their ability to think critically is key to navigating these obstacles.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach problems thoughtfully and creatively in their own lives, whether in academic settings or in personal decision-making.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Amy and Dan encounter numerous setbacks and dangers, yet they continually adapt and persevere.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of resilience and the importance of pushing forward, even when faced with difficulties or failures.
Example Lesson: Importance of historical knowledge
Explanation: The story integrates real historical facts and figures, which play key roles in the plot, showing how understanding history can provide insights and advantages.
Real-World Application: This can spark an interest in history among children, encouraging them to explore and appreciate the past as a way to understand the present and influence the future.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision-making
Explanation: The characters are often faced with moral dilemmas where they must choose between easy but questionable options or right but difficult paths.
Real-World Application: It teaches children to weigh consequences and consider what is morally correct, helping them develop integrity and ethical standards in their everyday choices.