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The Messengers: The Greystone Secrets

#3 in Greystone Secrets Series

3.87
on Goodreads (1,902)

What’s inside...

In the conclusion to the Greystone Secrets series, the Greystones and their doubles, the Gustanos, must team up to save the alternate world—before both worlds are lost. As book three of the Greystone Secrets series opens, the Greystone kids have their mother back from the evil alternate world, and so does their friend Natalie. But no one believes the danger is past. Then mysterious coins begin falling from unexpected places. They are inscribed with codes that look just like what the Greystones’ father was working on before he died. And with the right touch, those symbols transform into words: PLEASE LISTEN. And FIND US, SEE US, HELP US. . . . The coins are messengers, telling the Greystones and their allies that their friends in the alternate world are under attack—and that the cruel, mind-controlling forces are now invading the better world, too. After another spinning, sliding journey across worlds, the Greystone kids must solve mysteries that have haunted them since the beginning: what happened when the Gustanos were kidnapped, what created the alternate world, and how a group of mismatched kids can triumph once and for all against an evil force that seems to have total control.

Why read this book

  • Engaging adventure thrills and challenges young minds.
  • Enhances children's understanding of relationships and trust.
  • Stimulates imagination through mystery and intrigue.
  • Encourages teamwork and perseverance in young readers.
In series
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

8-12

Length

416 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Chess Greystone
Natalie Mayhew
Finn Greystone
Emma Greystone
Ms. Morales
Maureen Greystone
Director

Discussion points

How do you think the characters felt when they discovered their alternate realities? What would you feel if you were in their shoes?
Why do you think teamwork and trust are important themes in the story? Can you think of a time you had to rely on others?
What would you do if you had to solve a mystery like the Greystone kids? How would you start?
The book touches on the idea of courage in the face of the unknown. What does being brave mean to you?
How do you think the story would change if the setting was different? What if it happened in our town?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences to those of the characters, enhancing their empathy and understanding of the book.
Discuss the moral choices the characters make and ask your child what they would do in similar situations, supporting ethical thinking.
Use the theme of alternate realities to fuel creativity and imagination in your child by asking them to envision their own alternate world.
Highlight the importance of teamwork mentioned in the book and relate it to everyday situations like family activities or school projects.
Ask open-ended questions to encourage your child to think deeply and articulate their thoughts and feelings about the story.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'The Greystone Secrets,' the characters must collaborate and rely on each other's unique strengths to solve the mysterious events. This teamwork is pivotal in overcoming challenges throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to work cooperatively in group settings such as school projects or sports teams, appreciating each member's contributions.
Example Lesson: Value of courage and bravery
Explanation: The protagonists face their fears when confronting unknown elements of the story. Their bravery in uncertain times is a recurring theme that impacts the narrative’s progression.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to confront their fears and stand up for what is right, even in daunting situations, promoting resilience and self-confidence.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: The children in the book frequently encounter puzzles and complex situations. They need to think critically and devise strategies to navigate these problems successfully.
Real-World Application: Children can enhance their problem-solving skills by tackling challenges head-on and experimenting with different solutions in academics or everyday decisions.
Example Lesson: The consequences of choices
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters make decisions that have significant impacts on their lives and others. This narrative illustrates the ripple effect of their choices.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to consider the potential outcomes of their actions and make thoughtful decisions, understanding that their choices can influence themselves and others.

The Messengers: The Greystone Secrets by Margaret Peterson Haddix