Cliff-Hanger (Mysteries in Our National Park)
#3 of 12 in Mysteries In Our National Parks Series
on Goodreads (235)
What’s inside...
Twelve-year-old Jack and his younger sister visit Mesa Verde National Park, where they delve into the park's history while gradually uncovering the mysterious past of their family's teenage foster child Lucky. When a cougar attacks a hiker in Mesa Verde National Park, the Landons have another mystery on their hands. Jack and Ashley are used to visiting parks with their wildlife veterinarian mother and photographer father, but this time their hands are full with a foster child called Lucky Deal. As Lucky and Jack become friends, Ashley becomes suspicious: What did Lucky take from the burn site? Who did she call in the night? In a midnight showdown at Spruce Tree House, Jack realizes there's more to fear than a killer cat.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Jack and Ashley to solve the mystery? How would you feel in their shoes?
How do the national parks in the story compare to any parks you've visited? What similarities or differences do you see?
What role do you think teamwork played in solving the mystery? Can you share an example from your own experience where teamwork helped you?
How did the setting of the national park affect the story? Why is the setting important in a mystery?
What did you learn about wildlife conservation from this book? Why is it important to protect our national parks?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and ideas about the book by asking open-ended questions that go beyond just recalling facts. Validate their feelings and perspectives to make them feel heard and appreciated. Relate the themes of the book to your child’s personal experiences to make the discussion more relatable. Use the book’s setting and plot as a springboard to teach your child about the importance of nature conservation and responsible behavior in national parks. Highlight the problem-solving and teamwork in the story, discussing with your child how these skills are valuable in real-life situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: The characters in 'Cliff-Hanger' collaborate to solve mysteries, demonstrating the importance of working together to achieve a common goal.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and value each other’s contributions.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters face various challenges that require critical thinking and decision-making, showcasing how to approach and solve problems effectively.
Real-World Application: This skill can be used by children when they encounter obstacles in their studies or daily life, enabling them to think critically and find solutions.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: The mystery elements in the book ignite curiosity and a love for learning, as characters explore and uncover new information.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their surroundings and seek knowledge in all aspects of life, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: Set in a National Park, the story emphasizes the beauty and importance of preserving natural environments, teaching children to respect and care for nature.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be instilled through activities such as recycling, conservation projects, or family trips to parks, helping children develop a sense of responsibility towards the environment.
Example Lesson: Courage and resilience
Explanation: Characters in the book often face fears and overcome obstacles, highlighting the importance of courage in challenging situations.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their fears and overcome challenges, whether it’s trying new activities, standing up for themselves, or coping with changes in life.