Ace Ventura: Pet Detective
Ace Ventura Series
on Goodreads (23)
What’s inside...
Ace Ventura: Pet Detective is a comedy film that follows the eccentric and outlandish character Ace Ventura, a private investigator who specializes in the retrieval of lost or stolen pets. When the Miami Dolphins' mascot, a dolphin named Snowflake, is kidnapped just before the Super Bowl, Ace is hired to find the culprit. Throughout his investigation, Ace encounters various obstacles and humorous situations, including a confrontation with a shark, infiltrating a fancy party, and dealing with the police who doubt his unconventional methods. His investigation leads him to discover a plot involving a disgruntled former Dolphins player, Ray Finkle, who seeks revenge for a missed field goal that ruined his career. With his unique blend of wits and animal instincts, Ace manages to rescue Snowflake and expose the criminal, ensuring the Super Bowl can go on as planned.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-16
Length
165 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ace Ventura
Emilio
Melissa Robinson
Lt. Lois Einhorn
Discussion points
What do you think motivates Ace Ventura to become a pet detective?
How do you feel about the way Ace treats animals? What would you do differently?
What does this story teach us about responsibility and caring for pets?
Which part of the book was the most exciting for you, and why?
If you could ask Ace Ventura one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the story by asking them how they would solve a mystery involving a lost pet.
Discuss the importance of responsibility in pet care, using examples from the book and relating them to real-life situations.
Use the humorous elements of the book to engage your child and ask them what parts made them laugh and why.
Foster empathy by discussing how the pets might feel in various situations depicted in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Kindness
Explanation: Throughout the book, Ace Ventura demonstrates a deep empathy for animals, understanding and advocating for their wellbeing.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize and respond to the feelings and needs of pets and other animals in their environment, fostering a more compassionate attitude.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving Skills
Explanation: Ace Ventura showcases his unique investigative skills to solve cases, highlighting the importance of thinking creatively and persistently to tackle challenges.
Real-World Application: Kids can embrace these problem-solving techniques in their daily challenges, whether in completing school projects or resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Ace takes responsibility for the safety and protection of animals, showing the importance of being accountable for those who rely on us.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of responsibility in caring for pets or taking on duties at home and school.
Example Lesson: Confidence
Explanation: Ace's unshaken belief in his detective skills, even when others doubt him, underscores the value of self-confidence.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to trust in their abilities and stand firm in their convictions, particularly in new or challenging situations.
Example Lesson: Respecting Differences
Explanation: Ace's unconventional methods and personality are initially met with skepticism but ultimately celebrated, teaching that diversity in thought and behavior should be respected.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this understanding by appreciating diverse perspectives and personalities among their peers, promoting an inclusive environment.