Barney and the Secret of the French Spies (The Secret History Series, #4)
#4 in Secret history Series
on Goodreads (44)
What’s inside...
The new title in the critically acclaimed series that explores Australia's early Colonial secret history In 1798 orphaned Barney Bean now has a flourishing farm in the New South Wales colony and everything he ever dreamed of ... except his childhood friend Elsie. But when Elsie falls ill and Barney rushes to be by her side, he finally learns the deadly secret she has been hiding. Who is this strange and beautiful girl who will not speak? And could France ever attack the isolated colony? Written by award-winning author Jackie French and superbly illustrated by Mark Wilson, this fourth book in The Secret Histories series explores extraordinary and untold stories from Australia's past, including the female French botanist who could only work disguised as a man, French and English spies, and wars between two empires that threatened even a far-off colony.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Barney to keep the secret from the French spies?
How did Nora's actions influence the events in the story? Can you think of a time when you influenced an outcome?
What did you learn about the French spies and their role during that historical period?
How would you feel if you were in Barney's situation?
What lessons about trust and secrecy do you think this book teaches?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in each character's shoes, fostering empathy and deeper understanding. Highlight historical contexts briefly to enrich the discussion. Emphasize the moral dilemmas presented and ask your child how they might handle similar situations. Use comparisons to current events or personal experiences to make discussions more relatable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of courage and bravery
Explanation: In the story, Barney demonstrates courage by engaging with secret spies, showcasing bravery in the face of danger and uncertainty.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by standing up for themselves and others, and facing their fears in challenging situations at school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Throughout the book, Barney relies on his friends and learns the importance of trust in relationships during their adventurous undertakings.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of building trusting relationships and supporting their friends in real life.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical context
Explanation: Set against the backdrop of early 19th-century France, the book provides historical insights that are crucial to the unfolding events.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate history and its impact on the present, encouraging them to explore and understand different historical events and cultures.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Barney and his friends often find themselves in situations where they must use their wit and intelligence to navigate through problems.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to think critically and develop solutions to their own problems, enhancing their decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: Moral integrity
Explanation: Barney often faces moral dilemmas and chooses to do what is right, even when it's difficult, showing strong personal ethics.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to consider ethical dimensions of their actions and strive to make morally sound decisions in their daily lives.