Mystery of the Melted Diamonds (An Avon Camelot Book)
Avon Camelot Book S. Series
What’s inside...
Kipper and his cousin Larry get caught in a Kansas snowstorm and become involved in the search for diamonds stolen from a jewelry store in town.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the diamonds melted, and what does this tell us about assumptions in mysteries?
How did the characters in the book work together to solve the mystery, and what can we learn from their teamwork?
What would you have done differently if you were in the story, and why?
How do you think the mystery affected the community in the story, and what impact do you think it had on trust among the characters?
What emotions did you feel as the mystery unfolded, and which part of the book made you feel that way?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the plot and the characters' decisions by asking them to imagine alternative outcomes. Discuss the importance of teamwork as demonstrated in the book, and relate it to everyday situations in your child’s life. Use these discussions to enhance empathy by exploring different character perspectives and the emotional impact of the events in the book. Highlight the fun and excitement of solving a mystery together by possibly creating a mini-mystery game at home related to the book’s theme.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The protagonist in 'Mystery of the Melted Diamonds' faces the challenge of uncovering the truth behind mysterious events. Through logical reasoning and deduction, the mystery is progressively unraveled.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving skills in real life by analyzing situations and thinking critically to find solutions, be it in academic challenges or personal conflicts.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book collaborate and use their unique strengths to solve the mystery, demonstrating that teamwork can achieve more than working alone.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the value of collaborating with others, whether in school projects or in playing sports, understanding that diverse perspectives can lead to better outcomes.
Example Lesson: Courage and facing fears
Explanation: As the characters confront unknown elements and face challenges, they show bravery. This highlights the idea that courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to face it.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face their own fears and challenges in life, be it trying out new activities, or standing up for what is right despite their fears.
Example Lesson: Ethics and honesty
Explanation: The book places a strong emphasis on telling the truth and solving the mystery ethically without resorting to deceit or manipulation.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to practice honesty in their daily interactions and understand the long-term benefits of ethical behavior.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: The journey to solve the mystery is fraught with setbacks, yet the characters persist and don't give up, ultimately leading to a resolution.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of perseverance in achieving goals, whether it involves completing a difficult school assignment or mastering a new skill in sports or arts.