Detective LaRue: Letters from the Investigation
#2 in LaRue Series
What’s inside...
While on vacation, Mrs. LaRue receives letters from her dog Ike who has been falsely accused of harming the neighbor's cats and is trying to clear his name. Join Detective LaRue on his investigative journey to uncover the truth and prove his innocence.
Discussion points
Why do you think Ike wrote letters to his owner, Mrs. LaRue? What could he be trying to communicate?
How do Ike’s adventures make you feel? What would you do if you were in his situation?
What do the illustrations tell us about the story that the words do not?
How do you think the story would change if it was told from Mrs. LaRue’s perspective rather than Ike’s?
What does this story teach us about responsibility and misunderstandings?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a playful tone when discussing Ike’s misadventures to keep the mood light and engaging. Encourage your child to imagine their own pet going on an adventure and ask what they think would happen. Relate the themes of the book to real-life situations of misunderstandings and discuss the importance of seeing things from others' perspectives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding perspectives
Explanation: Through the use of letters written by the main character, Detective LaRue, readers are shown different viewpoints of the same events.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of considering multiple sides of a story before making a judgment.
Example Lesson: Importance of communication
Explanation: Detective LaRue’s letters provide key insights and updates, demonstrating effective communication.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to express their thoughts and feelings clearly and regularly through writing or speaking.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Detective LaRue solves mysteries using clues and deductions, showcasing critical thinking and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply logical reasoning to solve their own problems, whether at school or in social situations.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and accountability
Explanation: The plot revolves around Detective LaRue taking responsibility to solve a case, highlighting accountability for one's actions.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of taking responsibility in various scenarios, such as completing assignments or owning up to mistakes.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As Detective LaRue explores different points of view, he demonstrates empathy towards other characters.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be empathetic and considerate towards the feelings and experiences of others in their daily interactions.