The Case of the Locked Box (Book 11) (The Milo & Jazz Mysteries)
#11 of 12 in The Milo & Jazz Mysteries Series
What’s inside...
The Milo & Jazz Mysteries stars two kid detectives-in-training who use STEM problem-solving skills as they race to unravel cases and save the day! Perfect for fans of Encyclopedia Brown, Cam Jansen and Nate the Great. Someone stole $100 from a locked cashbox... and almost everyone in school thinks the culprit is Jazz! When Jazz is put on trial in student court, it's up to Milo to prove her not guilty! This ideal series for beginning readers making the transition to chapter books has incredible Super Sleuthing activities in each book, including hidden pictures, puzzles, mini-mysteries, and quizzes—plus free online activities.
Character compass
Milo
Jazz
Detective Dash Marlowe
Discussion points
What do you think Milo and Jazz felt when they encountered the locked box? How would you feel in a similar situation?
How do the characters use their problem-solving skills to solve the mystery? Can you think of a time when you solved a problem like they did?
What do you think makes a good detective? Do you see those qualities in Milo and Jazz?
Why is teamwork important in solving mysteries? Can you share an example from your experiences where teamwork helped you?
How do Milo and Jazz respect each other's ideas in the book? Why is it important to listen to others' ideas?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Milo and Jazz’s shoes. This builds empathy and enhances their ability to analyze characters’ actions and motives.
Discuss the importance of problem-solving and teamwork showcased in the book. Highlight instances from the book where these skills are effectively used.
Ask open-ended questions like those listed above to promote critical thinking and deeper understanding of the story’s themes.
Connect the story to real-life situations, helping your child relate the book's scenarios to their personal experiences, enhancing their engagement and learning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Milo and Jazz use their detective skills to solve the mystery of the locked box, showcasing logical thinking and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach challenges methodically and persistently, developing critical thinking skills applicable in schoolwork and daily dilemmas.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, Milo and Jazz collaborate, combining their strengths to solve the mystery, emphasizing the importance of working together.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value cooperative efforts in group projects or team sports, understanding that combined talents achieve greater results.
Example Lesson: Attention to detail
Explanation: The young detectives pay close attention to details to crack the case, stressing the significance of observation.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to be more observant and meticulous in their own life, enhancing their academic and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Honesty
Explanation: Characters in the book are faced with moral decisions, highlighting the importance of honesty in solving the mystery.
Real-World Application: Children understand the value of truthfulness in building trust and integrity in relationships with peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Curiosity
Explanation: The lead characters' quest to uncover the mystery fosters a spirit of inquiry and curiosity.
Real-World Application: This stimulates children's desire to learn more about the world around them, motivating them to explore new subjects and ideas.