Agent Angus (Orca Currents)
#1 of 18 in Orca Currents Series
on Goodreads (55)
What’s inside...
Angus and his friend Shahid share a love for science and robotics, but Angus becomes infatuated with artistic classmate Ella Eckles. When a stink bomb incident at school gives Angus a chance to speak with Ella, he pretends to share her interest in reading facial expressions and aspires to be a mentalist. He impresses her by identifying the stink bomber but hides the fact he saw the bomber in action. Later, when Ella's sketchbook is stolen, she turns to Angus for help. Though not a real mentalist, Angus is determined to learn how to read people and find the sketchbook. With Shahid's reluctant assistance and some amusing investigative tactics, Angus embarks on a comedic adventure to solve the mystery.
Character compass
Angus
Discussion points
What did you think about Angus’s problem-solving skills? How would you have tackled the mysteries he faced?
Angus uses a lot of technology to solve mysteries. What are some ways you think technology can help us every day?
How did Angus change from the beginning of the book to the end? What do you think made him change?
If you were Angus, would you have made the same decisions he did? Why or why not?
Angus has a unique way of looking at the world. What can we learn from his perspective on solving problems and communicating with others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare and contrast their own problem-solving skills with Angus’s approach, fostering critical thinking.
Discuss the role of technology in the book and relate it to the technology your child uses, which can help them connect with the story on a personal level.
Highlight Angus’s character development throughout the story to help your child understand the concept of growth and change.
Ask your child about the decisions made by Angus, prompting them to consider different choices and their potential outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity and critical thinking
Explanation: The protagonist, Angus, uses his curiosity and analytical skills to solve mysteries, illustrating how questioning and investigating can lead to discovery and understanding.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions, explore, and think critically about the world around them, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Angus faces challenges and setbacks in his investigations, but his persistence helps him to eventually succeed, demonstrating that determination is key to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Teaches children that persistence is important in achieving goals, and that challenges are a natural part of the learning and growing process.
Example Lesson: Understanding and respecting differences
Explanation: Angus interacts with a diverse group of characters, learning from their different perspectives and backgrounds, which highlights the importance of empathy and diversity.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the value of diversity and encourages them to respect and learn from people who are different from themselves.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Angus often collaborates with others to gather clues and solve puzzles, showcasing how teamwork can lead to better solutions and success.
Real-World Application: Promotes the development of social skills and teaches children the importance of cooperating and working together with others.