The Case of the Phantom Cat: The Mysteries of Maisie Hitchins Book 3
#3 of 8 in The Mysteries Of Maisie Hitchins Series
What’s inside...
From best-selling author Holly Webb comes a brand new series full of mystery and intrigue following the adventures of Maisie Hitchins, a determined heroine and her dog in Victorian London. Maisie lives in her grandmother's boarding house and adores the famous detective Gilbert Carrington. Alongside her faithful pup Eddie, Maisie eagerly follows any hint of mystery. When Maisie and her best friend Alice visit a country estate rumored to be haunted, strange occurrences challenge Maisie to put her detective skills to the test.
Character compass
Maisie Hitchins
Alice
Discussion points
What do you think makes Maisie Hitchins a good detective? Can you think of qualities you have that are similar to hers?
How did Maisie feel when she encountered the Phantom Cat, and what would you have done in her situation?
Why is teamwork important in solving mysteries, based on Maisie’s experiences?
What are some ways that Maisie shows kindness and determination throughout the story?
If you could ask any character in the book a question, who would you choose and what would you ask?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them to predict what might happen next or how a different character might react in a situation. Share your thoughts on the book’s themes and ask for their opinion to create a two-way conversation. Highlight examples from the story where characters show positive traits like perseverance and empathy, and relate them to real-life scenarios your child might face. Lastly, celebrate their responses and insights to build their confidence and interest in reading.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout 'The Case of the Phantom Cat,' Maisie Hitchins uses her critical thinking and deductive reasoning to solve mysteries, demonstrating the importance of logical thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving skills in their academic work and in resolving daily challenges with peers.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity
Explanation: Maisie's adventures are driven by her innate curiosity and desire to learn more about the world around her, encouraging a lifelong love for learning.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and explore subjects that intrigue them, fostering a healthy sense of wonder.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Maisie often finds herself in scary situations, yet she bravely pushes forward to uncover the truth, illustrating the importance of bravery.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own fears and understand that bravery isn’t the absence of fear, but rather the ability to persevere despite it.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Maisie relies on her friends to help solve the mystery, showcasing the value of teamwork and trust.
Real-World Application: This can be applied to a child’s life by emphasizing the importance of cooperation and building strong, supportive relationships.