#18 in The Hardy Boys Series
The Sinister Signpost
on Goodreads (3,031)
What’s inside...
In 'The Sinister Signpost', the Hardy Boys, Frank and Joe, encounter a mysterious road sign that seems to cause accidents. Their search for answers leads them to the Signpost Gang, a group using the signpost as a distraction for their criminal activities. The boys must overcome dangerous obstacles and unravel the gang's plot, in an adventure full of mystery, tension and excitement.
Character compass
Discussion points
Why do you think the characters reacted the way they did to the mysteries in the story?
How do the choices made by the characters influence the outcome of the plot?
What would you have done differently if you were in the protagonist's place?
How do the setting and the signpost contribute to the suspense of the story?
What do you think is the most important message the author wants to share?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings based on different choices the characters could make.
Ask your child to relate the story's themes or conflicts to their own experiences or observations in real life.
Discuss the moral implications of the characters' actions and decisions to instill values of responsibility and ethics.
Highlight the importance of critical thinking by discussing clues and red herrings within the story’s plot.
Create a fun environment to discuss the book, perhaps setting up a mock detective scene at home to delve deeper into the mystery together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout 'The Sinister Signpost', the Hardy boys rely on collaboration and teamwork to solve mysteries, demonstrating that working together can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in group activities at school or with friends, learning to collaborate and value each other’s input to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem solving
Explanation: The story showcases the characters analyzing clues and making logical deductions to solve the mystery. It highlights how applying critical thinking can lead to uncovering truths.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to use reasoning and critical analysis in their daily lives, helping them to solve problems and make informed decisions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of challenges
Explanation: The Hardy boys encounter numerous setbacks in their investigation but remain determined and persistent, showing that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to persist through their own challenges, whether in academic, social, or personal aspects, understanding that resilience often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Honesty and integrity
Explanation: As the characters strive to solve the mystery honestly without resorting to deceit, the book reinforces the value of integrity.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be instilled in children to always act honestly and uphold their principles, especially when facing ethical dilemmas.
Example Lesson: Civic responsibility
Explanation: By engaging with the mystery affecting their community, the Hardy boys exemplify active participation in community affairs and the importance of contributing to societal well-being.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to be more aware of their community's needs and to consider ways they can help, fostering a sense of responsibility and community service.