#37 in The Hardy Boys Series
The Mystery of the Flying Express
on Goodreads (2,044)
What’s inside...
The Hardy boys' search for stolen antique car and crooks involved in the theft, takes them on a dangerous chase by airplane, boat, and train to solve this chilling and baffling mystery. After the new hydrofoil they are guarding is stolen, the Hardy boys face frequent danger in solving a mystery involving criminals who operate by signs of the zodiac.
Discussion points
What do you think makes the Hardy Boys good detectives? How do they work together to solve mysteries?
How do Frank and Joe handle challenges and setbacks during their investigation? Can you think of a time when you faced a challenge?
What role does friendship and trust play in 'The Mystery of the Flying Express'? How do the characters support each other?
If you were part of the Hardy Boys' team, what skills would you bring to help solve the mystery?
What did you learn about trains and the role they play in this story? How do they add to the mystery?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the teamwork displayed by the Hardy Boys and their personal experiences with teamwork at home or school.
Discuss the problem-solving techniques used by the characters and ask your child how they might use similar strategies in their own life.
Highlight the importance of perseverance as demonstrated by the characters, and relate it to challenges your child faces in daily activities.
Use the historical and technological aspects of the story, such as the trains, to dive deeper into a mini-research project with your child that expands their learning context.
Create a fun activity where your child can pretend to be a detective, using clues from their everyday life to solve a 'mystery'.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout 'The Mystery of the Flying Express,' the Hardy Boys work together, pooling their skills and knowledge to solve the mystery. They demonstrate effective communication and cooperation.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working together with their peers on group projects or in team sports, understanding the value of each member's contribution and achieving common goals through cooperation.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Explanation: The characters in the book frequently encounter puzzles and challenges that require logical reasoning and sharp thinking to resolve. This stimulates a mindset geared towards problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Kids can use critical thinking skills to tackle academic challenges, resolve personal conflicts, and navigate complex situations in everyday life by analyzing information before making decisions.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Resilience
Explanation: Despite facing numerous setbacks, the Hardy Boys remain determined and do not give up on their mission. Their resilience in overcoming obstacles is a key component of the plot.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital for children as it encourages them to persist in the face of difficulties, whether it’s while learning a new skill, dealing with schoolwork, or managing social relationships.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Accountability
Explanation: Frank and Joe Hardy take responsibility for solving the mystery, demonstrating accountability for the roles they've taken on. They show that being responsible leads to trust and respect from others.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take responsibility for their actions, be reliable in completing their chores, school assignments, and in their interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Ethics and Integrity
Explanation: The Hardy Boys consistently choose to do what is right, even when faced with easier, unethical alternatives. Their moral choices define their characters and influence the story's outcome.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of honesty and integrity, helping them understand that their actions define their character and impact their relationships with others.