Looking for Trouble
Piper S. Series
on Goodreads (104)
What’s inside...
Inspired by a book read at school, Tony and his friends start a club called Looking for Trouble to solve crimes and track down criminals, hoping to become famous and appear on TV. When a new family moves in nearby, it seems trouble has indeed come to Tony's doorstep. This warm and funny novel from a bestselling author combines friendships, adventures, and humorous scenes that readers will find relatable and entertaining.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
123 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the main character to go on their adventure?
How would you handle the challenges faced by the characters in the story?
What are some qualities of the hero that you admire?
Can you think of a time when you had to be brave like the characters?
What lessons do you think this book teaches us about friendship and trust?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to highlight the adventurous and suspenseful moments; it enhances the mood and keeps the child engaged.
Ask the child to predict upcoming events or how characters might react to different situations. This keeps them thinking actively as the story unfolds.
Encourage the child to draw a scene or character from the book. This helps them connect visually and emotionally with the story.
Relate the story's themes or situations to real-life events or personal experiences to make the discussion more relatable.
Praise your child’s responses and insights during the discussion to boost their confidence and encourage deeper thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist of 'Looking for Trouble' demonstrates bravery as they navigate challenging situations, showing that courage isn't the absence of fear but the determination to act despite it.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of facing their fears, whether it be standing up for a friend, trying out for a school play, or addressing a classroom bully.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and loyalty
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters support one another in times of need, emphasizing the strength found in true friendship and loyalty.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to foster and value deep connections with their peers, which can offer support and joy throughout their lives.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and critical thinking
Explanation: The characters in the book often encounter problems that they need to solve creatively and logically, showcasing the importance of critical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to use reasoned thinking and creativity to solve everyday problems, from complex homework assignments to conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Responsibility for one's actions
Explanation: Characters in 'Looking for Trouble' face consequences for their decisions, teaching readers about the importance of personal responsibility and integrity.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand that their actions have consequences, guiding them to make thoughtful decisions.
Example Lesson: Resilience during tough times
Explanation: The book portrays characters rebounding from setbacks and disappointments, providing a model of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to persevere through their own challenges, be it academic struggles, loss, or personal failures, and understand that setbacks can lead to growth.