The Dinosaur Mystery (The Boxcar Children Mysteries #44)
#44 of 164 in The Boxcar Children Series
What’s inside...
The four Aldens like visiting the large old museum owned by their grandfather's friend. But then Jessie sees a huge, scary shadow moving in the room where the dinosaur skeletons are on display. And bones from the enormous Tyrannosaurus rex disappear. They must find the missing bones and solve the mystery before an exhibit is scheduled to open — or there might not be a dinosaur exhibit at all!
Character compass
Henry Alden
Jessie Alden
Benny Alden
Violet Alden
Discussion points
What do you think made the dinosaurs disappear, and how does it relate to the mystery in the book?
If you were one of the Boxcar Children, how would you have solved the dinosaur mystery?
What qualities do you admire in the main characters, and why?
How do you think teamwork helped the Boxcar Children in their adventure?
Can you think of a time when you solved a problem like the Boxcar Children did in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story, which can help them connect more deeply with the characters and plot.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next in the story, or how the mystery could be solved. This encourages critical thinking.
Discuss the importance of teamwork as exhibited by the Boxcar Children, and relate it to real-life scenarios in your child’s experiences.
After reading, have your child draw their favorite scene or character. This can help them express their thoughts and feelings about the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The Alden siblings solve the mystery of the dinosaur bones through effective teamwork. They gather clues together, share ideas, and divide tasks based on their strengths.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to work cooperatively in group settings, whether in school projects or during play, emphasizing that collective effort often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the mystery, children are engaged with the siblings as they analyze clues, make inferences, and deduce conclusions around the dinosaur bones.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to apply logical reasoning and investigative skills in their daily challenges and academic tasks.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and love for learning
Explanation: The story's setting and plot foster a natural curiosity about dinosaurs and paleontology, leading to a learning journey about the prehistoric age.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to explore subjects that pique their interest, which can encourage lifelong learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The Boxcar Children take on the responsibility of solving the mystery respectfully and carefully, understanding the importance of the historic artifacts.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of being conscientious and responsible in handling tasks and respecting history and community resources.
Example Lesson: Integrity
Explanation: As they solve the mystery, the children remain honest and truthful throughout their adventure, reinforcing the importance of integrity.
Real-World Application: This can instill the values of honesty and integrity in children, teaching them to always strive for truthfulness in their actions and words.