Starla Jean Cracks the Case
#3 of 3 in Starla Jean Series
What’s inside...
Starla Jean and her pet chicken, Opal Egg, return in this side-splitting third chapter book, just in time to solve a puzzling mystery that takes them on a chase through the neighborhood! Have you ever walked a chicken on a leash? Well, chicken expert Starla Jean will let you know first hand, it's not easy. But that doesn't stop Starla from taking her pet chicken, Opal Egg, and her baby sister, Willa, out on a stroll through the neighborhood. On their walk, they stumble upon a mysterious bead. And then another! Before they know it, there's a conundrum on their hands, and it's up to Starla and her friends to figure out just who exactly is losing these beads! Printz Honor winner and National Book Award Finalist Elana K. Arnold is back once more with this irresistible story of a girl, her chicken, and an unfolding mystery, superbly illustrated by A. N. Kang.
Discussion points
What do you think Starla Jean felt when she cracked the case? Can you think of a time you solved a mystery?
Why do you think teamwork was important in the story? Who would you want on your team to solve a mystery?
How did Starla Jean show kindness to others in the story? What are some ways you can show kindness to your friends or family?
What did you learn from Starla Jean’s adventures? Is there something new you want to try after reading this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading: Change your tone and pace to match the excitement of the story, making the reading experience lively and engaging.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences: After reading, discuss any similar experiences your child had, drawing parallels to the book’s events.
Encourage creativity: Ask your child to draw a picture of what they imagine the next mystery Starla Jean might solve could look like.
Foster curiosity: Prompt your child to ask questions about the story, and explore the answers together, perhaps even researching more about detectives and mysteries.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Starla Jean demonstrates critical thinking and determination as she solves the mystery, showcasing how to approach problems methodically.
Real-World Application: Children can utilize these problem-solving techniques in their daily interactions, such as resolving conflicts with siblings or figuring out a difficult homework question.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Through her journey, Starla Jean learns the importance of responsibility as she takes on tasks and sees them through completion.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by taking charge of simple household chores or being punctual and prepared for school every day.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Starla Jean shows empathy by considering the feelings of others involved in her case, which helps her make fair and kind decisions.
Real-World Application: Children can practice empathy by being considerate of their friends’ feelings and learning to help others in need.
Example Lesson: Curiosity
Explanation: Her inquisitive nature drives Starla Jean's adventure, underlining the importance of asking questions and seeking out new knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encourage children to explore subjects they're interested in and ask questions to gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite challenges, Starla Jean remains persistent and does not give up on cracking the case, highlighting the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Teach children the importance of not giving up in face of difficulties, whether it be in their studies, sports, or personal goals.