#4 in The Boxcar Children Series
The Soccer Mystery
on Goodreads (565)
What’s inside...
The Soccer Mystery is a thrilling tale in which the Alden family find themselves entangled in a football scam while visiting a friend in New Jersey. Suspicion spreads as the team's best player struggles, balls are tampered with, and the corrupt coach appears to be hiding a secret. In their effort to solve the mystery, the Aldens unveil deceit and fight to restore the team's reputation.
Character compass
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt when they solved the soccer mystery?
What would you have done differently if you were one of the characters in the story?
Why is teamwork important, both in soccer and in solving mysteries?
What do you think is the most important clue that helped solve the mystery?
How can we apply the lessons from the book to our daily lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading: Change your tone of voice to match the excitement of the mystery, helping to captivate your child's interest.
Relate to personal experiences: Discuss times when your child was part of a team and compare that to the teamwork in the book.
Encourage predictions: Before revealing key plot points, ask your child what they think will happen next and why.
Focus on problem-solving: Discuss the process of solving the mystery and brainstorm other ways the characters might have reached their solution.
Identify character emotions: Ask your child to explain how different characters might be feeling at various points in the story and why.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: In 'The Soccer Mystery,' the characters work together to solve the mystery, demonstrating the importance of cooperation and teamwork on and off the soccer field.
Real-World Application: Children learn to collaborate with others, share ideas, and support each other in group tasks at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The book encourages children to think critically and use logical reasoning to piece together clues, showcasing effective problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This skill helps children in academic settings and in overcoming everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: The value of physical activity
Explanation: Through the backdrop of soccer, the story promotes staying active and involved in sports.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to participate in physical activities which are essential for health and social interaction.
Example Lesson: Integrity and honesty
Explanation: Characters in the book demonstrate honesty while dealing with the mystery, reinforcing the importance of being truthful.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of honesty in building trust and maintaining relationships.