The Secret of the Shamrock (Volume 1) (Chime Travelers)
#1 in Chime Travelers Series
What’s inside...
When Patrick has to work on his church's cleaning team on a Saturday, he thinks his weekend fun is ruined. But when the old church bells start chiming, Patrick and his pet frog, Francis, are suddenly taken back through time to ancient Ireland. Will the strange shepherd he meets be able to help him get home, or will Patrick be stuck taking care of sheep in the rain and mud forever? Find out in The Secret of the Shamrock. Book 1 in the Chime Travelers series, exciting new chapter books ideal for children in grades 2-5.
Character compass
Patrick
Katie
Saint Patrick
Discussion points
What did you think about Patrick's adventure back in time? How would you feel if you were in his shoes?
Patrick learned a lot about faith and friendship. What are some lessons you learned from the story?
How did Patrick help the shepherd? Can you think of a time when you helped someone and how it made you feel?
What did you think about the character of the bishop in the story? What qualities did you admire in him?
If you could travel back in time like Patrick, where would you go and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the questions, maintain an open and curious tone to make your child comfortable in expressing their thoughts and opinions.
Emphasize the moral and spiritual lessons in the story, and relate them to everyday situations your child might encounter.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story, which will help them connect with the characters and their experiences on a deeper level.
Highlight the importance of friendship and faith, which are central themes in the book, and discuss how these values are important in your family’s life as well.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In the story, the protagonist Patrick learns to understand and sympathize with people from different time periods and cultures as he travels back in time.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to appreciate and respect differences in their peers and in various cultures they encounter.
Example Lesson: Importance of Courage
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Patrick faces challenges that require bravery and resilience, teaching readers about the importance of being courageous in difficult situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face their fears and challenges head-on, whether it’s trying something new or standing up for what’s right.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: As Patrick befriends different characters in his travels, he learns the importance of friendship and cooperation.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of building and maintaining friendships and how working together can help overcome obstacles.
Example Lesson: Learning from History
Explanation: The historical setting of the book allows Patrick to learn lessons from the past and understand how history shapes the present.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate history and its impact on current events, fostering a deeper understanding of the world.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Patrick's time-traveling adventures are fraught with challenges that he overcomes, displaying resilience.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to remain resilient and persistent despite difficulties or setbacks in their own lives.