Capital Mysteries #5: Who Broke Lincoln's Thumb?
#5 of 14 in Capital Mysteries Series
What’s inside...
It's a red, white, and blue mystery from popular A to Z Mysteries author Ron Roy! In 'Who Broke Lincoln's Thumb?', the fifth book in the Capital Mysteries series, a celebration is planned by the president at the Lincoln Memorial in honor of the man who sculpted the famous statue of Abraham Lincoln. However, KC and Marshall notice one of the statue's thumbs is broken. They set out to find out if it has been stolen and try to locate it before the celebration begins. The book features fun facts and famous sites from Washington, D.C., and each book in the series highlights one of the famous museums, buildings, or monuments from the area. It includes a map and a two-page fun fact spread with photographs. This chapter book is ideal for emerging readers and any child who loves mysteries.
Character compass
Kc Corcoran
Marshall Li
Discussion points
Why do you think someone would want to harm a statue of Abraham Lincoln?
What qualities do you think KC and Marshall needed to solve this mystery?
How do you think the history of a place contributes to a mystery story?
What would you have done differently if you were in KC or Marshall's shoes?
How do the actions of the characters teach us about responsibility and respect for history?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think like a detective, emphasizing the importance of attention to detail and critical thinking.
Discuss the historical aspects of the book, perhaps bringing in supplementary materials or visiting local historical sites to deepen the understanding.
Highlight the moral lessons within the story, such as integrity and perseverance, and ask how these qualities can be applied in their daily life.
Create a fun, interactive reading environment by perhaps reenacting parts of the book or using props related to the story.
After reading, encourage your child to summarize the plot in their own words, enhancing both comprehension and communication skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters KC and Marshall use critical thinking and deductive reasoning to solve the mystery of who broke Lincoln's thumb.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving skills in real-life situations, learning to think critically and make informed decisions when faced with challenges.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The young detectives work together, pooling their knowledge and skills to solve the mystery, highlighting the value of collaboration.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of working with others to achieve common goals, which is essential in school projects and sports.
Example Lesson: Historical knowledge
Explanation: Set against the backdrop of the Lincoln Memorial, the story incorporates facts about Abraham Lincoln and American history, enriching children’s historical knowledge.
Real-World Application: Understanding history enhances cultural awareness and identity, helping children appreciate the past and its impact on the present.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Honesty
Explanation: Characters in the story demonstrate taking responsibility for their actions and being honest about mistakes.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of owning up to their actions and the value of honesty in building trust and integrity.