Key to the Golden Dog (Wishbone Mysteries)
#8 in Wishbone Mysteries Series
What’s inside...
When an antique model steam engine vanishes from Pepper Pete's Pizza Parlor, Wishbone and Samantha must crack the case before their favorite pizza place closes.
Character compass
Wishbone
David Barnes
Samantha Kepler
Joe Talbot
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make Wishbone a good detective?
How did the characters in the story show teamwork? Can you think of a time when you worked with others to solve a problem?
What would you have done if you were in Wishbone's place during the mystery?
How do the clues in the story help Wishbone solve the mystery? What was the most surprising clue?
If you could ask any character in the book a question, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Pause at suspenseful moments and ask your child what they think will happen next, encouraging them to use clues from the text to make predictions.
Discuss the motives of different characters and ask your child why they think each character acted the way they did.
After finishing the book, ask your child which part of the book was their favorite and why.
Encourage your child to draw a scene from the book, focusing on details that stood out to them.
Create a simple 'detective game' where you and your child can solve daily little mysteries at home, relating back to the methods used by Wishbone in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Key to the Golden Dog', Wishbone and his friends work together to solve the mystery, demonstrating that cooperation can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by collaborating with peers on projects at school or during team sports, learning to value each team member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: The characters in the book use clues and reasoning to uncover secrets, showcasing effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can use similar critical thinking skills to tackle academic challenges or resolve conflicts with friends, enhancing their decision-making abilities.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The mystery genre of the book encourages curiosity and exploration, as characters delve into unknowns to uncover the truth.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be more inquisitive about the world around them, whether it's learning about new subjects in school or exploring their environment.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical contexts
Explanation: As the story unravels, it touches on historical elements that provide a backdrop for the mystery, enriching the narrative with educational content.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore history and learn about different eras, which can help them understand the context of various historical events and cultural practices.