The Sign of the Crooked Arrow
#28 of 117 in The Hardy Boys Series
on Goodreads (2,019)
What’s inside...
After receiving a cryptic message, The Hardy Boys find themselves embroiled in a series of crimes and misdemeanors leading to a dangerous heist. The investigative teenagers must piece together the clues to unmask the crooks and their devious plot. With only the slender clue of an arrow-shaped tie clasp, Frank and Joe Hardy pick up the trail of a cunning gang of thieves responsible for a wave of jewelry-store holdups. But their investigations are interrupted when a desperate plea for help comes from their widowed cousin who lives on a cattle ranch in New Mexico. Frank, Joe, and their pal Chet fly there immediately, and manage to put an end to the trouble at the ranch and solve the jewelry-store robberies.
Character compass
Frank Hardy
Joe Hardy
Chet Morton
Fenton Hardy
Discussion points
Why do you think the Hardy Boys were determined to solve the mystery of the Crooked Arrow?
What qualities do Frank and Joe Hardy possess that help them as detectives? Can you think of any way these qualities help them in other aspects of their life?
How did the brothers work together to overcome challenges in the story? Can teamwork be important in real-life situations?
What do you think about the setting of the story? How does it influence the events and the characters?
If you were part of the story, which character would you want to be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by discussing your child's first impressions of the book and its characters. This can help them articulate their thoughts and opinions more clearly.
Encourage your child to compare the characters’ behaviors and choices in the book to their own life experiences, which can enhance their empathy and understanding of the characters.
Use the mystery aspect of the book to spark curiosity. Ask your child to predict future events or the outcome of the book, and discuss their reasoning.
Discuss the moral decisions made by the characters and ask your child what they would have done differently in similar situations.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to think about what lessons they might have learned from the story and how they can apply these lessons to their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout 'The Sign of the Crooked Arrow,' the characters collaborate 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 in sports, learning to cooperate and value each team member's contributions.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The protagonist employs critical thinking and problem-solving to uncover clues and solve the mystery, highlighting the effectiveness of a methodical approach.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach their own challenges methodically, whether in academic tasks, puzzles, or interpersonal conflicts.
Example Lesson: Cultural awareness
Explanation: The story incorporates elements of Native American culture through the mystery of the crooked arrow, educating readers about respecting and learning from different cultures.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cultural diversity and the importance of respecting traditions and histories different from their own.
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: Characters in the book often face dangerous situations with courage, teaching young readers about bravery in the face of adversity.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their fears, whether it's trying out for a new activity, standing up against bullying, or overcoming personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Integrity and honesty
Explanation: The book underscores the importance of being honest and maintaining integrity even when faced with difficult choices.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand the importance of honesty in building trust and maintaining relationships, both in personal and academic environments.