The Ghost of the Chattering Bones (The Boxcar Children Mysteries)
#102 of 164 in The Boxcar Children Series
What’s inside...
The Alden children are investigating a mystery at Eton Place where they encounter a ghost. An old family friend, Norah Eton, believes there is a valuable piece of jewelry hidden on her property, but only has a small clue. The children try to find the treasure while also dealing with a ghostly presence. Additionally, during a vacation at a friend's country home, the four siblings attempt to find a long-missing, priceless brooch and investigate the existence of a ghostly stream.
Character compass
Henry Alden
Jessie Alden
Benny Alden
Violet Alden
Discussion points
What do you think the ghost represents in the story? How does it affect the characters?
Why do you think the characters reacted the way they did to the mystery?
How would you solve the mystery of the Chattering Bones if you were one of the Boxcar Children?
What lessons do you think the characters learned by the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the Boxcar Children's shoes, enhancing their empathy and problem-solving skills.
Discuss the different emotions the characters might feel throughout the mystery to deepen emotional understanding.
Use the ghost and the mystery as metaphors to explain overcoming fears and challenges, making the story relevant to real-life situations your child might face.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: The Alden siblings work together to solve the mystery of the chattering bones, demonstrating how teamwork can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by collaborating with peers on group projects at school or during team sports, learning the value of working with others to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the children analyze clues and make logical deductions to solve the mystery, showcasing essential critical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child’s everyday life by encouraging them to think critically about challenges they face, whether in academic settings or personal decisions.
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: The siblings face their fears when confronting the mystery of the ghost, teaching readers about the importance of bravery in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson by facing their own fears, be it during presentations at school, trying out new activities, or standing up for themselves and others in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity
Explanation: The children's natural curiosity drives them to explore and uncover the secrets behind the ghostly occurrences, emphasizing the value of inquisitiveness.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to ask questions and seek out knowledge in all areas of life, fostering a lifelong love of learning and exploration.
Example Lesson: Respect for history and heritage
Explanation: The mystery involves historical elements and the siblings learn about the past, which underscores the importance of respecting and understanding history.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore their own family histories or learn about different cultures and historical events, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the world around them.