Black Anchor (Shadow Squadron, 2)
#2 in Shadow Squadron Series
What’s inside...
A Chinese oil rig platform in Cuban waters has been hijacked, forcing Shadow Squadron to intervene. But before Lt. Cross and his men can board the BLACK ANCHOR, they get some startling intel: the mercenaries are American, and they've taken hostages. Even worse, the Cuban military is on its way, and they have no concern for the lives of anyone onboard.
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make a good team leader, like the characters in 'Black Anchor'?
How did the teamwork in the story help the characters overcome their challenges?
What would you have done if you were in the characters' shoes during their mission?
How do you think trust is important in the Shadow Squadron team?
Can you think of a time when you had to work with others to solve a problem like the characters did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Use follow-up questions to delve deeper into their responses. Highlight the importance of teamwork and leadership demonstrated in the book, relating it to real-life scenarios your child might face. Discuss the moral decisions characters make and ask your child what they would do in similar situations. Lastly, affirm the value of trust and cooperation, drawing parallels between the book’s themes and your child’s experiences with friends or in school.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The characters in 'Black Anchor' work together to complete their missions, demonstrating the effectiveness of cohesive teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working collaboratively in group settings, such as in school projects or sports teams, to achieve a common goal.
Example Lesson: Leadership and Responsibility
Explanation: As members of the Shadow Squadron, characters take on leadership roles that require making tough decisions for the greater good, teaching the value of responsible leadership.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to take initiative and be accountable in their actions, whether it's during group activities or in personal tasks.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: The team faces various obstacles throughout their mission, highlighting how they adapt and persevere.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain determined and resilient when encountering difficulties in their own lives, understanding that challenges are a part of learning and growth.
Example Lesson: Ethical Decision Making
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters are faced with choices that test their morals, promoting critical thinking about right and wrong.
Real-World Application: This helps children develop a sense of morality and ethics, which they can apply in everyday decisions and interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Strategic Thinking
Explanation: The Shadow Squadron employs strategic thinking and planning to successfully complete their missions, showcasing the importance of careful analysis and strategy.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and plan strategically when approaching tasks or solving problems in their academic and personal lives.