The Boxcar Children Series
The Lighthouse Mystery
2016 by
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
Third Graders Miles, Ellen and Kendra discover more than the answer to the mystery of the missing arrowhead in this fictional tale. The Lighthouse Mystery was written to commemorate the installation of an 1877 replica Fresnal lens for the Vermilion Ohio lighthouse. The lighting of this lens means that the lighthouse, an exact copy of the one made in 1877 from melted obsolete cannons, is now a U.S. Coast Guard sanctioned private navigational aid and is included in navigational charts.
Why read this book
- Engaging mystery enhances problem-solving skills.
- Characters teach valuable teamwork principles.
- Supports developmental understanding of right and wrong.
- Ideal for boosting young readers' comprehension.
The Big Picture
- Curiosity drives discovery and learning.
- Teamwork is key to solving big challenges.
- Perseverance leads to success.
Diversity & Representation
- Showcases cultural diversity through unique character backgrounds.
- Promotes inclusion with a wide range of character roles.
- Highlights cooperation between diverse groups solving mysteries.
Age
0-1
Length
66 pages
Text complexity
developing
Character Compass
Discussion points
Why do you think the lighthouse is mysterious? What makes a place mysterious?
How do the characters in the story feel when they are solving the mystery? Can you relate to their feelings?
What do you think makes the lighthouse important to the community in the story?
How would you solve the mystery if you were in the story?
What did you learn about teamwork from the characters’ experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to make the mysterious aspects of the lighthouse come alive. Change your tone and pace when reading about different clues to build suspense.
After reading the book, encourage your child to draw the lighthouse and surroundings as they imagine it. Discuss their drawing, focusing on details that stood out to them.
Discuss the problem-solving methods used by the characters. This will encourage critical thinking and help your child connect the story to real-life situations.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next before revealing the unfolding parts of the story. This stimulates imagination and anticipation.
After finishing the book, revisit your child’s initial predictions and thoughts to discuss what surprised them and what they learned.
What parents love
Engaging mystery that keeps kids eager to read more.
It teaches problem-solving in a very child-friendly way.
Perfect mix of fun facts and intriguing storyline.
Builds empathy and courage through relatable characters.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: The characters in 'The Lighthouse Mystery' work together to solve the mystery, demonstrating how collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in extra-curricular clubs, learning to cooperate with peers to achieve a common goal.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters use their critical thinking skills to gather clues and solve puzzles, highlighting the importance of thinking logically and creatively.
Real-World Application: Kids can use these skills in their academic subjects like math and science, or in figuring out everyday challenges, helping them become better decision-makers.
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: The young protagonists face challenges and unknown elements bravely, teaching children the value of facing fears and standing strong in difficult situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital when children encounter new or intimidating situations such as trying out a new sport, standing up against bullying, or performing on stage.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity
Explanation: The curiosity of the characters leads them to explore and discover the secrets of the lighthouse, showing that asking questions and exploring can lead to exciting discoveries and learning opportunities.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore their surroundings, ask questions, and learn more about their environment and the people around them.