[(The Pizza Mystery )] [Author: Gertrude Chandler Warner] [Mar-1993]
#33 of 164 in The Boxcar Children Series
on Goodreads (1,817)
What’s inside...
The Boxcar Children are helping out at a pizzeria run by their old friends, the Piccolos, who are facing troubles keeping their business afloat. As they work at the restaurant, the children start to suspect that someone may be deliberately trying to force Piccolos' Pizzeria to close its doors. They must uncover who is behind it and why.
Character compass
Henry Alden
Violet Alden
Jessie Alden
Benny Alden
Discussion points
Why do you think the characters were so eager to solve the mystery of the missing pizza?
How did teamwork help the characters in the story? Can you think of a time when you worked with others to solve a problem?
What do you think makes a good mystery? What were some clues in this story that kept you guessing?
How did the characters in the book show responsibility and honesty during their adventure?
If you were part of the story, what role would you choose to play and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a curious tone when discussing the mystery elements to spark interest.
Link discussions to real-life situations where teamwork and problem-solving are needed.
Encourage your child to predict upcoming events or the outcome while reading the book together.
Highlight the importance of the characters’ traits, such as honesty and responsibility, and relate them to personal development.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: In 'The Pizza Mystery', the Boxcar children work together to solve the mystery of who is trying to sabotage the local pizzeria.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working collaboratively to achieve a common goal, which is applicable in school projects and team sports.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The characters use their critical thinking and deductive reasoning to figure out the clues they come across.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and logically in their own lives when faced with problems or challenges.
Example Lesson: Compassion and empathy
Explanation: The children show understanding and help others who are in distress, showing empathy towards characters who are wrongly accused or in trouble.
Real-World Application: Teaches kids the importance of being compassionate towards others' feelings and situations, promoting an empathetic approach in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The Boxcar children take responsibility for finding the truth and ensuring justice at the pizzeria.
Real-World Application: Instills the value of taking responsibility for one's actions and the role each individual plays in maintaining justice and fairness in their community.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite difficulties and setbacks, the children persist in their quest to solve the mystery.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to persevere through challenges in their studies, hobbies, and personal goals, reinforcing the importance of resilience.