Houseboat Mystery (The Boxcar Children Mysteries Book 12)
#12 of 164 in The Boxcar Children Series
What’s inside...
The Aldens are spending the summer traveling on a houseboat! Throughout their journey, the children have the feeling that they're being watched. Someone is watching them — and the thing that he wants is somewhere on their boat! He'll stop at nothing to get it and it's up to the Boxcar Children to figure out why!
Character compass
Henry Alden
Violet Alden
Jessie Alden
Benny Alden
James Henry Alden (Grandfather)
Discussion points
What do you think makes the houseboat a mysterious place in the story?
How would you solve the mystery if you were one of the Boxcar Children?
What are some important clues that helped the children solve the mystery?
How do the characters work together to overcome challenges?
What did you learn about trust and teamwork from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by summarizing the plot with your child to ensure they understand the story.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next after each chapter to keep them engaged and thinking critically.
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences, such as times they worked together with friends or solved a problem.
Discuss the characteristics of each sibling in the Boxcar Children and ask your child which character they relate to the most and why.
Highlight the importance of paying attention to detail as it relates to solving the book's mystery and encourage your child to observe small details in daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The Alden children work together to solve the mystery of the missing items from neighboring houseboats.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of working with others to achieve common goals and solve problems, both in school projects and family activities.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, the children face various challenges and use their critical thinking and resourcefulness to solve the mystery.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think critically and creatively in their own lives when faced with challenges or puzzles.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The children take on the responsibility of investigating the thefts, showing initiative and commitment.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of taking responsibility for their actions and commitments, whether it’s in their chores, schoolwork, or in interactions with friends.
Example Lesson: Caring for Others
Explanation: The Alden children show concern for their neighbors and are motivated to help them recover their stolen items.
Real-World Application: Highlights the importance of empathy and helping others in need, promoting acts of kindness within the community.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Through their investigative adventures, the children learn new things and feed their curiosity.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be curious about the world around them and to seek knowledge through reading and exploration.