The Last Treasure
on Goodreads (967)
What’s inside...
For thirteen-year-old Ellsworth, family has always been just him and his dad. That's all Ellsworth thought he wanted. But then the dreams start. Dreams of houses surrounding a beautiful green square. Suddenly a letter arrives, inviting Ellsworth to a home he doesn't remember: the Square in Smith Mills, New York. A home with a hidden treasure only a child can uncover, the last treasure of John Matthew Smith, the family's eccentric patriarch. But there are other things hidden in the Square. Can Ellsworth set these ghosts to rest and uncover the family's last treasure, or will the secrets of the past haunt him forever?
Discussion points
What do you think is the most important lesson the main character learned in their adventure?
How would you feel if you were in the main character's situation and found a treasure?
What do you think makes a true treasure valuable? Is it always something material?
If you could add another adventure to the story, what would it be and why?
How do you think teamwork helped the characters in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters' decisions, fostering empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives.
Discuss the concept of 'treasure' in both material and intangible forms, such as friendship or knowledge, to deepen their understanding of value.
Relate the story's adventures to your child's own experiences, drawing parallels that help them connect personally with the narrative.
Prompt your child to imagine alternative endings or additional adventures, boosting their creative thinking and storytelling skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: In 'The Last Treasure', characters work together to solve clues and uncover hidden secrets, demonstrating the effectiveness of collaborative efforts.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning the importance of cooperation and valuing each team member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The protagonists face numerous challenges but remain determined to reach their goal. This resilience showcases the power of perseverance in achieving objectives.
Real-World Application: Kids can use this lesson by sticking with difficult tasks, whether it’s completing homework, learning a new skill, or resolving conflicts with friends, emphasizing that persistence often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The book’s characters are propelled by curiosity, leading them to uncover knowledge and secrets about their past, motivating them to learn more.
Real-World Application: Encourage children to be inquisitive about the world around them, whether through reading, exploring nature, or asking questions, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, the characters encounter various problems that they must solve logically and creatively.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to approach problems in their own lives with critical thinking and creativity, enhancing their problem-solving skills in real-world situations.