ElsBeth and the Pirate's Treasure, Book I in the Cape Cod Witch Series
#1 in Cape Cod Witch Series
What’s inside...
Recipient of the prestigious Mom's Choice Award honoring excellence. When Halloween approaches, a never-quite-forgotten pirate's treasure awakens some serious trouble in the sleepy Cape Cod town. ElsBeth Amelia Thistle, the youngest witch on the Cape, and her friend Johnny Twofeathers, chief-to-be of the local Wampanoag tribe, along with spirited classmates and magical creatures, must face off against dangerous outsiders and the notorious pirate Billy Bowlegs. Their goal is to restore the balance of past and present, good and evil, which includes battling with troublesome fairies from the old country. The book includes nineteen full-color illustrations.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated ElsBeth to go on a treasure hunt?
How would you feel if you were on an adventure like ElsBeth’s? What would you do differently?
What do you think about the idea of magic in the story? Do you wish you had magical powers like ElsBeth?
What lessons did ElsBeth learn during her adventure? Have you learned similar lessons in your own life?
How do the friendships in the story impact the adventure? Why are friends important during challenging times?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, relating it to their own experiences. Ask them to imagine themselves in the story and consider different outcomes. Discuss the importance of courage, friendship, and curiosity, as displayed by ElsBeth. Highlight the elements of magic and ask your child how they think magic influences the characters and the plot.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing challenges
Explanation: ElsBeth encounters pirates and embarks on an adventurous quest, demonstrating bravery and resolve.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing their fears and overcoming obstacles, be it during school presentations or in new social settings.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout her journey, ElsBeth works closely with her friends, illustrating how collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate cooperative efforts and shows them how working together can solve problems more effectively than working alone.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: ElsBeth's adventure is set against the backdrop of the natural beauty of Cape Cod, promoting an appreciation and respect for the environment.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of preserving natural spaces and the role they can play in protecting the environment.
Example Lesson: History and culture appreciation
Explanation: The story integrates elements of Cape Cod's rich history and culture, enhancing educational value.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand and value different cultures and histories, fostering a sense of curiosity and respect for the past.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: ElsBeth must solve various challenges throughout her adventure, using cleverness and critical thinking.
Real-World Application: This teaches children how to approach and solve problems in creative ways, which can be applied in their academic and personal lives.