Cats and Curses
#4 of 5 in Marsh Road Mysteries Series
on Goodreads (24)
What’s inside...
In 'Cats and Curses,' the fourth book in The Marsh Road Mysteries series by Elen Caldecott, Andrew, Piotr, Minnie, Flora, and Sylvie embark on a thrilling adventure when Andrew's mum receives a mysterious package containing an ancient Egyptian mummified cat. As strange occurrences unfold at the Marsh Road junk shop, the five friends must determine if the shop has been cursed by the feline or if there's another explanation. This book will captivate fans of adventure and intrigue, appealing to readers who enjoy works by Robin Stevens, Katherine Woodfine, and Enid Blyton.
Discussion points
What do you think about the relationship between the cats and their owners in the story?
How would you feel if you discovered a hidden curse in your own house? What would you do?
Why do you think teamwork was important for solving the mystery in the book?
What lessons did the characters learn by the end of the story?
If you could have a magical pet like the ones in the book, what kind would you choose and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This can help them express their understanding and feelings about the story.
Create a fun atmosphere by reading parts of the book with different voices for each character. This can make the reading experience more immersive and enjoyable.
Relate the themes from the book to real-life situations in your child’s world, such as the value of teamwork and friendship, to reinforce the moral lessons.
Encourage your child to predict what might happen next at several points in the book. This engages their imagination and critical thinking skills.
After finishing the book, ask your child if they would write a different ending and what it would be. This encourages creative thinking and perspective-taking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'Cats and Curses', the characters must work together to solve the mystery of the cursed cat. This cooperation demonstrates the power of teamwork in overcoming challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by collaborating with peers on group projects or in team sports, learning that collective effort can achieve greater outcomes.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The story encourages critical thinking as characters analyze clues and deduce answers to break the curse. This promotes an analytical approach to resolving issues.
Real-World Application: Kids can use these problem-solving skills at school when faced with complex subjects or in daily life when encountering obstacles.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Care for Animals
Explanation: Characters in the book show compassion and responsibility towards the cursed cat, teaching the importance of kindness to animals.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of being caring and responsible pet owners or in their interactions with animals in their community.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: As the young protagonists face their fears to save their feline friend, they demonstrate courage. This highlights the importance of bravery in confronting the unknown.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their own fears, whether it’s trying out for a school play, standing up to a bully, or tackling a difficult task.
Example Lesson: The Consequences of Actions
Explanation: The book explores how the curse came to be as a result of certain actions, showing that choices have repercussions.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to consider the potential consequences of their actions on themselves and others before making decisions.