Lost Treasure
#2 of 4 in The Hounds Of Penhallow Hall Series
on Goodreads (101)
What’s inside...
Polly and her new ghostly friends William, Rex, and Magnus, along with the awakened Chinese porcelain Fu Dog, Li-Mei from the Red Drawing Room at Penhallow Hall, embark on an adventure to solve the mystery of rumored smugglers and the sighting of a ghostly Green Lady at the cove. During their investigation, they discover a secret tunnel with a broken statue of a dog buried beneath a rockfall, which could potentially be linked to the disappearance of Li-Mei’s canine companion.
Discussion points
What do you think the main character felt when they discovered the lost treasure?
How would you solve a mystery if you were in the story?
Why do you think teamwork was important in finding the treasure?
What was the most surprising part of the story to you, and why?
If you could change one part of the story, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Ask your child to predict what might happen next before turning the page, enhancing their anticipation and engagement.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene. This helps them connect visually with the story and discuss the elements they enjoyed most.
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the reading session lively and entertaining.
After reading, relate the story to your child’s experiences, asking them if they have ever discovered something unexpected or solved a problem with friends.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Lost Treasure', the characters must work together to solve clues and find the hidden treasure. This collaboration highlights how teamwork is essential to achieving goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and value each other's strengths.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The book challenges the characters with puzzles and obstacles that they must think through to progress in their treasure hunt, encouraging logical thinking and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Kids can use similar problem-solving approaches when faced with challenges in their studies or personal issues, enhancing their critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: As the protagonists encounter various challenges, they learn to overcome their fears which is a crucial part of their adventure and personal growth.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to face their own fears and anxieties, be it trying new activities, or standing up in class which fosters resilience and confidence.
Example Lesson: Value of persistence
Explanation: Throughout the story, the quest for the treasure is fraught with setbacks, yet the characters persist and ultimately succeed, showing the rewards of determination.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to not give up in the face of difficulties, whether it’s completing a difficult homework assignment or mastering a new skill.
Example Lesson: Respect for history and culture
Explanation: The search for treasure in 'Lost Treasure' introduces characters to different historical contexts and cultures, educating them and the reader alike.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect cultural diversity and history, which can translate to a broader understanding and empathy towards different cultures in their own lives.