The Second Spy
#3 of 5 in The Books of Elsewhere Series
What’s inside...
In Olive's third adventure, she faces new challenges as she starts junior high and discovers more secrets beneath her house. After falling through a hole in her backyard, Olive finds out that Annabelle McMartin is back and there are two powerful forces hidden underground. With the house's guardian cats acting suspicious, her best friend threatening to move away, and her ally Morton starting to rebel, Olive must navigate through these difficulties. She must figure out how to handle these threats and decide if she will be lured into Elsewhere, potentially trapped there forever.
Character compass
Olive Dunwoody
Harvey
Rutherford Dewey
Horatio
Leopold
David Morton
Annabelle Mcmartin
Discussion points
What do you think Olive felt when she discovered the hidden paintings? How would you feel if you found something mysterious?
Why do you think Morton chose to stay in Elsewhere? What does home mean to you?
How do Annabelle and Olive's friendship change throughout the story? Have you experienced a friendship that has evolved over time?
What role do you think the cats, Harvey and Leopold, play in the story? What does this say about the importance of animals in our lives?
What would you do if you had the ability to walk into paintings like Olive? Which painting would you choose and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening. Allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story without interruption. Reflect back what they are saying to show understanding.
Connect the themes of the book to your child's experiences. For example, discuss a time when your child discovered something new or had to adapt to a big change.
Encourage imagination by asking your child to think of alternate endings or to invent their own magical world.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This can help them express thoughts they might not be able to articulate verbally.
Discuss the ethical dilemmas characters face, such as Olive’s decisions and secrets. Guide the conversation to reflect on the importance of honesty and courage.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'The Second Spy', the characters must work together to solve puzzles and face challenges. This collaboration is key to their success.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cooperate with others in school projects or during team sports, understanding that combined efforts often lead to greater achievements.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: The protagonist, Olive, shows bravery in confronting dangerous situations and mysterious entities. Her courage is pivotal in advancing through her adventures.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to tackle their own fears, whether it's trying out for a school play, standing up to a bully, or facing a tough exam.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity and inquisitiveness
Explanation: Olive's curious nature drives her to explore and discover hidden secrets throughout the book. Her quest for knowledge is a central theme.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to ask questions and explore their world can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of their surroundings and can ignite a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters experience the outcomes of their choices, which emphasizes the impact of decisions.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think about the potential effects of their actions on themselves and others, promoting responsibility and thoughtful decision-making.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Olive learns to understand the perspectives of other magical creatures and people around her, which helps in resolving conflicts.
Real-World Application: This can help children in developing social skills and improving relationships with peers by appreciating diverse perspectives and emotions.