Surprise Island
#2 of 164 in The Boxcar Children Series
What’s inside...
Four brave siblings were searching for a home – and found a life of adventure! Join the Boxcar Children as they investigate the mystery of Surprise Island in the second book in this illustrated chapter book series beloved by generations of readers. The Aldens spend the summer on Grandfather's island! Joe, the island's friendly handyman, helps them with anything they need, but as the children continue to explore their summer home, they realize there is more to the island—and to their new friend—than meets the eye. What started as a single story about the Alden Children has delighted readers for generations and sold more than 80 million books worldwide. Featuring timeless adventures, mystery, and suspense, The Boxcar Children® series continues to inspire children to learn, question, imagine, and grow.
Character compass
Henry Alden
Violet Alden
Jessie Alden
Benny Alden
Joe
James Alden
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the adventure on Surprise Island and why?
How did the characters solve problems on the island? Can you think of a problem you solved in a similar way?
The children in the story learned a lot from nature. What have you learned from nature or outdoors?
If you were on Surprise Island, what are three things you would explore first and why?
How did the characters in the story show teamwork? Can you share an example when you worked with someone as a team?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves on Surprise Island and describe what their typical day would look like.
Ask your child to draw or describe a new character they would add to the story, discussing how that character would contribute to the adventure.
While discussing the book, use expressive facial expressions and voice modulations to make the conversation more engaging and fun.
Relate the problem-solving in the story to everyday situations your child encounters, to help them apply the story's lessons in real life.
Praise your child’s responses, highlighting their creativity and insight, to boost their confidence in expressing their thoughts and opinions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: In 'Surprise Island', the Alden children work together to explore the island and solve mysteries, demonstrating the benefits of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities where cooperation is necessary, learning to value different perspectives and strengths.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The characters’ explorations of the island’s natural environment exemplify an eagerness to learn, promoting intellectual development.
Real-World Application: Encourage children to investigate their surroundings and ask questions, fostering a lifelong love of learning through discovery.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness
Explanation: Throughout the book, the Alden children use available resources to solve problems and make discoveries, highlighting the importance of being inventive.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to use their creativity to overcome challenges in their daily lives, enhancing problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Respect for History and Nature
Explanation: The children show respect for the artifacts and natural features they discover on the island, teaching them to value preservation.
Real-World Application: Teach children to respect and protect historical objects and natural environments in their community, promoting environmental and cultural awareness.