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A to Z Mysteries Super Edition #5: The New Year Dragon Dilemma

#5 of 14 in A To Z Mysteries Super Edition Series

4.31
on Goodreads (661)

What’s inside...

Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose are in San Francisco for the Chinese New Year parade where their tour guide's girlfriend, Lily, who is Miss Chinatown, goes missing along with the crown she was wearing. The police suspect the tour guide, Holden, but the kids are determined to find the real culprit and clear Holden's name. Along with a fun adventure, the book also includes a secret message hidden in the illustrations. The A to Z Mysteries Super Editions continue to engage chapter book readers with more mysteries to solve, now with over 8 million copies in print. In this edition, during the famous Chinese New Year parade, Miss Chinatown disappears along with her crown, and it's up to Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose to crack the case. Readers are also encouraged to look for hidden messages within the book.
Series reading

Sequential

Age

7-11

Length

144 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Dink Duncan
Ruth Rose Hathaway
Josh Pinto

Discussion points

What do you think motivated Josh, Dink, and Ruth Rose to solve the mystery of the missing dragon?
How did the characters show teamwork throughout their adventure?
What are some ways the characters showed respect for different cultures?
How would you solve the mystery if you were part of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by asking your child what their favorite part of the story was, to ease into a deeper discussion. Encourage them to express their thoughts and feelings about the mystery, and relate the cultural aspects of the book to your child’s everyday experiences. Highlight the importance of teamwork seen in the book and discuss how it can be applied in real-life situations. Lastly, let them imagine alternate endings or different ways to solve the mystery to foster creativity.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'A to Z Mysteries Super Edition #5: The New Year Dragon Dilemma', the characters work together to solve the mystery of the missing dragon. Their collaboration is key to their success.
Real-World Application: Children learn that teamwork can help solve difficult problems and achieve goals, which is applicable in school projects, sports, and other group activities.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: The book explores Chinese New Year celebrations, providing insights into cultural practices and traditions.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and respect diverse cultures, promoting inclusivity and understanding among peers from different backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The characters face various challenges and puzzles throughout their journey, using critical thinking to overcome them.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply problem-solving strategies in their own lives, enhancing their decision-making skills and ability to navigate challenges.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing the unknown
Explanation: The protagonists bravely confront the mysteries and uncertainties they encounter, demonstrating resilience and courage.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to face new or intimidating situations with bravery, whether it's trying new activities or standing up for what's right.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters persist in their quest despite setbacks, exemplifying determination and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persistent effort in achieving goals, whether in academic, personal, or extracurricular endeavors.