The Mystery of the Spiral Bridge
#45 of 119 in Hardy Boys Series
What’s inside...
In the thirty-sixth book of the Hardy Boys series, the Hardy boys face a difficult challenge when a new invention, a machine that can make a man invisible, is stolen from their father's client. The brothers travel to Kentucky to investigate a series of strange occurrences at a recently constructed bridge, finding themselves drawn into a web of danger and intrigue that requires all their detective skills to solve. Frank and Joe Hardy are determined to bring to justice the vicious criminals who kidnapped their detective father while he was investigating sabotage of a road-building project in the Kentucky wilderness. After Mr. Hardy’s escape, the two young sleuths are spurred into action when he mumbles the word 'Felix' and they discover a dossier of a notorious ex-convict was stolen from his files. The trail leads them to New York City but ends abruptly in a cemetery. With the new clue of a spiral symbol, the boys head to Kentucky as part of a highway construction crew to track down the kidnappers and saboteurs.
Character compass
Frank Hardy
Joe Hardy
Discussion points
What do you think motivates Frank and Joe Hardy to solve mysteries? How would you feel if you were in their shoes?
In what ways do the brothers support each other during their adventures? Can you share an example from the book?
The setting of the Spiral Bridge brings many challenges for the characters. How do you think the setting impacts the story?
What lessons do you think the Hardy Boys learned from their experience at the Spiral Bridge? How can we apply these lessons to our challenges?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that allow children to express their thoughts and relate the scenarios in the book to their own experiences.
Encourage children to describe the characters and their relationships, helping them understand and articulate complex emotions and actions.
Discuss the problem-solving techniques used by the Hardy Boys, prompting your child to think critically about how they overcome challenges.
Highlight the moral lessons in the story to help children grasp the importance of values such as courage, teamwork, and perseverance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The Hardy Boys often rely on teamwork to solve the mysteries they encounter, showing that working together can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities or projects at school, learning to cooperate and value each team member's input.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of challenges
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters face numerous setbacks but continue to persevere until they solve the mystery, demonstrating the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to keep trying and not give up when they encounter difficulties in their studies or personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Explanation: The book engages readers in solving the mystery alongside the protagonists, enhancing their deductive reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can use these critical thinking skills to approach and solve problems in a logical and structured way, both academically and in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Honesty and integrity
Explanation: The Hardy Boys demonstrate honesty as they uncover the truth, teaching readers the value of being truthful and ethical.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of honesty in building trust and maintaining relationships with peers and adults.