The Secret Zoo
#4 of 6 in The Secret Zoo Series
on Goodreads (795)
What’s inside...
In the fourth book of The Secret Zoo series, a group of middle school friends discover a hidden zoo in their neighborhood filled with mythical creatures. During a Halloween adventure, they encounter terrifying sasquatches at their elementary school, which turns out to be a trap set by DeGraff. He captures three of Noah's friends, forcing the kids to team up with their rivals to save their friends and the animals of the zoo while evading the local police. The series combines elements of fantasy, animal fiction, and adventure, appealing to fans of Dan Gutman, Michael Buckley, and Andrew Clements. The book's imaginative storyline originated from the author's childhood curiosity about zoo exhibits with secret doors.
Character compass
Noah
Megan
Ella
Richie
Mr. Darby
Discussion points
What would you do if you discovered a secret zoo in your neighborhood?
Which animal in the secret zoo would you like to meet the most, and why?
How do the characters show bravery throughout the story?
What do you think is the most important lesson the characters learned?
How would you help the animals if you were part of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine their own secret zoo and describe what it would contain.
Discuss the qualities of each character and ask your child which traits they admire the most.
Connect the story to real-life scenarios by asking your child how they handle secret-keeping and what they think about the responsibilities that come with it.
Share a personal story where you faced a challenge and had to overcome it, tying it back to the bravery shown by the characters in the book.
Praise your child for insightful answers and encourage them to think deeper about the story’s themes and how they apply to everyday life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: In 'The Secret Zoo', the group of children works together to solve mysteries and overcome challenges within the zoo.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children that by working together and combining their unique skills, they can accomplish tasks and solve problems more effectively than they could alone.
Example Lesson: Courage and facing fears
Explanation: The characters in the story face their fears when dealing with the dangers and unknowns of the zoo's hidden aspects.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing their fears and the value of courage in overcoming obstacles in their lives, no matter how daunting they may seem.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge
Explanation: The characters' adventures are driven by their desire to understand the mysteries surrounding the zoo.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be curious and seek out knowledge, promoting lifelong learning and an understanding of the world around them.
Example Lesson: Empathy and animal welfare
Explanation: Through their interactions with the animals in the zoo, the children learn to understand and care for the needs of other creatures.
Real-World Application: This lesson instills a sense of empathy and respect for animals, teaching children to be considerate and compassionate towards all living beings.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and decision-making
Explanation: Throughout the book, the young characters make important decisions that affect their safety and the welfare of the zoo.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and making thoughtful decisions, skills that are applicable in many real-world situations.