Ballpark Mysteries #5: The All-Star Joker
#5 of 21 in Ballpark Mysteries Series
What’s inside...
Next up to the plate—book #5 in our early chapter book mystery series, where each book is set in a different American ballpark! Mike and Kate are at the All-Star game in Kansas City and even get to go on the field during the Home Run Derby to catch pop-ups. They meet Andy, whose dad, Josh Robinson, is an All-Star catcher. However, Josh finds himself accused of playing practical jokes on other players during the Derby, and the coach is convinced it's him. Andy insists his dad is innocent, and Mike and Kate set out to uncover the truth. Who would want to frame Josh and why? The mystery includes a fun fact page about Kansas City's stadium, blending sports and mystery for young readers.
Character compass
Michael Walsh
Kate Hopkins
Discussion points
What do you think makes a person a good team player, like the characters in the book?
If you were at the All-Star game in the story, what would you do if you noticed something mysterious?
How do you think the mystery could have changed if the characters made different choices?
Why is it important to solve problems together, like the characters did in the story?
What would you have done differently if you were solving the mystery?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to place themselves in the shoes of the characters, asking how they would react in similar situations.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and collaboration, drawing parallels between the story and real-life situations your child might encounter.
Prompt your child to think critically about the mystery, asking them to guess what might happen next or suggest alternative endings.
Use the characters' experiences to discuss values such as honesty, courage, and friendship.
After reading, consider watching a baseball game together to further connect the themes of the book with real-world experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The characters in 'Ballpark Mysteries #5: The All-Star Joker' work together to solve the mystery, showing how collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working with others to achieve common goals, whether in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The story portrays the characters using critical thinking and logic to solve clues, emphasizing the value of problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to tackle challenges in their lives by thinking critically and creatively.
Example Lesson: Integrity and Honesty
Explanation: As the mystery unfolds, characters who demonstrate honesty are portrayed positively, teaching the value of integrity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value truthfulness and to be honest in their interactions, which builds trust and credibility with others.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Adversity
Explanation: The protagonists face numerous challenges but remain determined to solve the mystery, showing resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of perseverance and not giving up when faced with difficulties.
Example Lesson: Respect for Diversity
Explanation: The book includes a diverse cast of characters, promoting inclusivity and respect for different cultures and backgrounds.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect people’s differences, which is crucial in fostering a more inclusive society.