Adam Sharp #1: The Spy Who Barked
#1 of 6 in Adam Sharp Series
What’s inside...
Eight-year-old spy Adam Sharp pursues the very short Ambassador of Barkastan, who has stolen a top secret computer program, DOGBARK, that will let him understand the language of dogs. Golden Books' dynamic series offers a comprehensive literacy program with books spanning five levels that guide children from initial reading attempts to confident independent reading and writing. The series combines both fiction and nonfiction to reflect current teaching methods and engage children with high-interest stories and relevant topics. In this installment, Adam Sharp must recover his lunchbox laptop taken by Jurgen Slug, to prevent it from being taken into Barkastan, home to the world's meanest dogs.
Character compass
Adam Sharp
Discussion points
What do you think makes Adam Sharp a good spy? Can you think of qualities that would help him in his adventures?
How did Adam feel when he found out about his mission? Have you ever felt a similar way when facing a new challenge?
Why is teamwork important in Adam’s spy missions? Can you share a time when you had to work with others to achieve a goal?
What would you have done differently if you were in Adam’s shoes during one of his spy challenges?
How do the gadgets in the book help Adam? Which gadget would you want to have and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences. This personal connection can deepen their understanding of the themes.
Discuss the importance of courage and resourcefulness, as demonstrated by Adam Sharp, and relate these qualities to real-life scenarios your child may face.
Highlight the fun and excitement in the story, particularly through Adam's adventures, to maintain enthusiasm and interest as you discuss the book.
Use the gadgets and technology in the book as a starting point to engage your child in discussions about science and creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, Adam Sharp uses intelligence and quick thinking to solve mysteries and navigate challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving skills learned from Adam's adventures to school projects, dealing with conflicts, or in play scenarios.
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Adam often collaborates with others, showcasing that teamwork can lead to accomplishing great things that might be difficult to do alone.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to work with their peers in group tasks, sports, or collaborative school activities, understanding that collective effort often yields positive results.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: The character’s inquisitive nature drives him to discover new information and explore different possibilities, underscoring the value of being curious.
Real-World Application: Children can embrace curiosity in their daily learning—asking questions in class, exploring new hobbies, and investigating topics of interest.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Adam exemplifies bravery as he tackles various dangerous situations, highlighting the importance of being courageous.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears, whether speaking in front of the class, trying out for a team, or standing up for themselves or others.
Example Lesson: Ethical decision-making
Explanation: Adam faces moral dilemmas and makes choices that reflect integrity and moral fortitude.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of making ethical choices, respecting others, and the consequences of their actions in both personal and social contexts.