The Bungalow Mystery
#3 of 163 in Nancy Drew Series
on Goodreads (25,740)
What’s inside...
In The Bungalow Mystery, the third book in the Nancy Drew series, Nancy is faced with a new challenge involving her friend Laura Pendleton, a suspect in a car theft, and a mysterious deserted bungalow. While on vacation with her best friends George and Bess, Nancy must use her detective skills to uncover the truth. While driving a motorboat around the Twin Lakes, Nancy and her friend Helen get caught in a dangerous storm. Luckily, they are rescued by another teenage girl in a rowboat. They soon learn that their rescuer is Laura Pendleton, whose mother has recently passed away. Laura has come to meet up with her new guardians, but something isn't quite right about them. Nancy investigates the situation, and soon she stumbles upon a shocking surprise in the cellar of a bungalow!
Discussion points
How do you think Nancy felt when she was solving the mystery at the bungalow? Can you relate to her feelings?
What do you think makes Nancy a good detective? What qualities would you need to solve mysteries like her?
Why is trust important in friendships, as shown between Nancy and her friends in the story?
How did the setting of the bungalow add to the mystery of the story? How would the story change if it was set somewhere else?
What did you learn about handling difficult situations from Nancy's adventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading each chapter, ask your child to predict what might happen next and why they think that.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite character in the book and explain why they chose that character.
Discuss the moral dilemmas faced by Nancy and her friends, and relate them to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Use a map to locate and visualize where the bungalow might be and discuss how the setting influences the story.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to think of an alternative ending and discuss how it would change the story's message.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience
Explanation: Throughout 'The Bungalow Mystery,' the protagonist, Nancy Drew, faces numerous challenges and setbacks while solving the mystery. Her perseverance in the face of difficulty serves as a prime example of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace challenges in their own lives, understanding that persistence and resilience are key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Nancy's success often hinges on her relationships with others. Her ability to trust her friends and seek help when necessary is a central theme.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of building trustful relationships and cooperating with others to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Nancy Drew consistently uses her observation skills and deductive reasoning to solve mysteries. This portrayal highlights the importance of critical thinking.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to observe carefully and think critically when faced with problems, enhancing their problem-solving skills in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: Courage in face of fear
Explanation: Nancy often finds herself in intimidating situations, yet she manages to keep her composure and courageously push forward.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing their fears and the role of courage in achieving success.
Example Lesson: The significance of honesty
Explanation: Nancy's commitment to finding the truth and her integrity in dealing with suspects and friends alike underline the importance of honesty.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the value of being truthful and the positive impact it can have on their relationships and self-esteem.