Chapter Two is Missing
What’s inside...
Chapter Two is Missing is a humorous picture book mystery written by Emmy-winning comedy writer and producer Josh Lieb. The story follows a hapless narrator, an unqualified detective, and a sneaky janitor as they try to solve the mystery of the missing second chapter of the book they are characters in. Along the way, they encounter misplaced punctuation, hidden letters, and chapters from another book. With the help of the reader, they navigate this chaotic and topsy-turvy literary landscape in a quest to restore order to their world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-6
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the chapter two is missing in the story? How do you imagine it would have continued?
What effect does the missing chapter have on the characters in the book?
If you could create your own chapter two, what would happen in it?
How do you think Detective McGarrigan felt about the missing chapter, and why?
What does this book teach us about dealing with unexpected situations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to write or draw their version of the missing chapter.
Discuss the characters' reactions to the missing chapter and relate them to real-life scenarios of dealing with loss or absence.
Use dramatic voice tones and expressions when discussing or reading, to emphasize the mystery and excitement.
Link the story to everyday situations by discussing times when something unexpected happened and how they dealt with it.
Compliment your child’s responses, ensuring them that their thoughts and ideas about the story are valued and important.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: In 'Chapter Two is Missing', characters navigate through the mysterious disappearance of an entire chapter, showcasing clever problem-solving to find it.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach real-life issues with a step-by-step problem-solving attitude, enhancing their critical thinking and adaptability.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The story emphasizes collaboration as characters work together to solve the mystery, highlighting how teamwork leads to success.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to value cooperative efforts in school projects or during play, building essential social skills.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: The whimsical and unexpected twists in the story inspire imaginative thinking and creativity among young readers.
Real-World Application: Nurturing creativity allows children to express themselves in unique ways, whether in storytelling, art, or daily problem-solving.
Example Lesson: Attention to detail
Explanation: As characters search for clues about the missing chapter, attention to detail is crucial for their success.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of observing and paying attention to detail in their studies, chores, and interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of confusion
Explanation: The characters continue their quest despite being baffled by the missing chapter, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to persevere through confusing or difficult situations in school or life, reinforcing the value of persistence.