The Old Motel Mystery
#23 of 164 in The Boxcar Children Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (1,417)
What’s inside...
This adventurous novel follows the four Alden children as they uncover a mystery at an old run-down motel they find while on their yearly summer trip. As they explore, they find strange and unsettling clues that suggest something more is going on. The siblings must use their wits and bravery to solve the motel's secrets and the mystery of the old owner's disappearance. Aunt Jane takes the Aldens to Florida to visit her friend Kay! Kay owns an old motel, but it's so rundown she thinks she might have to sell it. The Boxcar Children are happy to help her fix things up, but soon they learn someone is trying to keep the motel closed…forever.
Character compass
Henry Alden
Violet Alden
Jessie Alden
Benny Alden
Discussion points
What do you think made the old motel mysterious, and how would you feel if you were in the Boxcar Children’s place?
How do the characters work together to solve the mystery? Can you think of a time when you worked with others to solve a problem?
What role do trust and friendship play in this story? How important are these values in your own life?
Who was your favorite character, and what traits did you admire in them?
If you could change one thing in the story, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading techniques, changing your tone and pace to match the suspenseful parts of the story, to make the reading experience more immersive.
Encourage your child to imagine they're part of the story by asking them what they would do in similar situations the Boxcar Children face.
Highlight the teamwork and problem-solving aspects of the story, and relate them to everyday situations your child might encounter.
After discussing their favorite character, ask your child to draw a picture of a scene involving that character to deepen their connection to the story.
Explore the themes of the book further by planning a 'mystery-solving' game or activity based on the cues from the book, fostering critical thinking and creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout 'The Old Motel Mystery', the characters encounter various challenges which they must use their wit and reasoning to solve.
Real-World Application: Children can apply similar problem-solving techniques when facing challenges at school or in social situations, improving their ability to think critically and creatively.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book work together to uncover the mystery, highlighting the importance of collaboration and supporting one another.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to participate in group activities where teamwork is essential, helping them build cooperative skills and respect for others' ideas.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The protagonists often face fearful situations, but they show bravery and determination to get to the bottom of the mystery.
Real-World Application: Children learn to confront their own fears and challenges boldly, whether it's trying new activities or standing up for what is right in tough situations.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The young detectives take responsibility for solving the mystery, demonstrating a commitment to seeing their tasks through to completion.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of taking responsibility for their assignments and duties in school or at home, fostering a sense of accountability and reliability.
Example Lesson: Curiosity
Explanation: The book promotes a sense of wonder and curiosity as the characters seek to uncover hidden truths and unravel secrets.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and seek knowledge in all areas of life, enhancing their educational pursuits and personal growth.