Kudo Kids Series
Kudo Kids: The Mystery of the Masked Medalist
on Goodreads (141)
What’s inside...
From two-time Olympic bronze medalists Maia and Alex Shibutani comes a fun-filled, fast-paced middle-grade mystery set at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Andy and Mika are going to Tokyo and are excited to attend the Summer Olympics for the first time. They plan to indulge in delicious Japanese cuisine, watch numerous events, and participate in a popular new game called OlympiFan. Developed by a mysterious former medalist, OlympiFan involves players from around the world searching Tokyo for virtual medals and clues to discover the creator's identity. While Andy is keen on solving puzzles, especially since the winning team will beta-test future games by the Masked Medalist, Mika has a secret goal that could land her in trouble. However, when the game is sabotaged, the siblings face an even bigger mystery. To win, Mika and Andy must uncover who is attempting to thwart their team before it's too late.
Why read this book
- Exciting mystery adventure for young readers.
- Encourages teamwork and perseverance.
- Introduces Japanese culture and language.
- Supports development of analytical skills.
The Big Picture
- Teamwork leads to success.
- Appreciate and learn from different cultures.
- Solving mysteries teaches problem-solving skills.
- Reading about diverse settings boosts empathy.
Diversity & Representation
- Illustrates cultural diversity through thrilling Olympic Tokyo setting.
- Features siblings solving mysteries, showcasing teamwork and intelligence.
- Promotes understanding and appreciation of different global cultures.
Age
8-12
Length
288 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the Kudo Kids to solve the mystery? How important is teamwork in solving problems?
How do the different cultures shown in the book compare to our own? What can we learn from them?
What does the masked medalist teach us about competition and fair play?
How do the characters in the book handle challenges and setbacks? Can you think of a time when you had to overcome a difficulty?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the story by asking them to predict the plot twists or the identity of the masked medalist before it is revealed. Promote empathy by discussing how various characters might have felt during key events. Highlight the value of perseverance and teamwork showcased in the book. Use the unique setting of the Tokyo Olympics to explore and discuss different cultures and traditions portrayed in the story.
What parents love
Great for nurturing teamwork and cultural curiosity!
Exciting adventure, keeps kids engaged till the end!
Educational yet incredibly fun, perfect reading balance.
Addresses sportsmanship in an understandable way for kids.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In the story, the Kudo Kids work together to solve the mystery of the Masked Medalist, demonstrating the power of collaboration and diverse thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to value each other’s input and working together towards a common goal.
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: The book is set during the Tokyo Olympics, providing an enriching backdrop that introduces readers to various aspects of Japanese culture.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to explore and respect different cultures in their community, fostering a global mindset from an early age.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving Skills
Explanation: The siblings use critical thinking and deductive reasoning to unravel the mystery, emphasizing the importance of logical thinking.
Real-World Application: This can be mirrored in a child’s life through engaging with puzzles, challenges, and other educational games that promote analytical thinking.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, the Kudo Kids encounter challenges but remain determined to solve the mystery, showcasing resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist in their endeavors, whether they are academic challenges or personal goals, understanding that perseverance often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Joy of Discovery
Explanation: As the mystery unfolds, the joy of uncovering new clues and learning new facts is palpable, making the journey exciting.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to be curious and enthusiastic about learning, whether it's trying out a new hobby or exploring a new subject at school.