#3 in The Secret Series
The Secret Island
1938 by
on Goodreads (4,509)
What’s inside...
Four children, Jack, Mike, Peggy and Nora, are orphaned and forced to live with their cruel aunt and uncle. They decide to run away and live on a secret island in the middle of a lake. They build a home, grow their own food, and live a life of freedom and adventure. But they must always be on guard for their aunt and uncle who are determined to find them.
Why read this book
- Adventure-filled narrative enhances imaginative thinking.
- Characters exemplify teamwork and resilience.
- Encourages independence and problem-solving skills.
- Engaging content suitable for family reading time.
The Big Picture
- Fosters teamwork and collaborative problem-solving.
- Encourages resilience through imaginative scenarios.
- Models emotional intelligence and regulation.
- Promotes strategic thinking and resourcefulness.
Diversity & Representation
- Characters from varied cultural and ethnic backgrounds featured.
- Promotes inclusivity through diverse character friendships and interactions.
- Illustrations depict a range of skin tones and attire.
Book in series
#3
Age
8-12
Length
163 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
What would you do if you found your own secret island? How would you make it feel like home?
Which of the four children did you relate to the most, and why?
How do the children in the book cooperate and help each other? Can you think of a time when you worked together with friends to solve a problem?
What role does trust play in the adventures of the children on the secret island?
How did the setting of the island influence the story? What impact did the surroundings have on the events?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book to demonstrate open communication. Mention your favorite character or a memorable scene.
Encourage your child to express their opinions and feelings about the book, validating their thoughts to build confidence.
Connect the story to your child’s experiences by relating the adventures and teamwork in the book to real-life situations they might face.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or adventures on the island, which promotes creative thinking and deepens their connection to the story.
Discuss the moral lessons the book might impart, such as the importance of friendship, courage, and resourcefulness.
What parents love
Perfect blend of adventure and values for kids
My child was captivated from start to finish
Educationally rich, emotionally sensitive storytelling
Inspires creativity and problem-solving in a fun way
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: In 'The Secret Island', the siblings work together to survive and create a home on the island. They pool their skills and resources, overcoming challenges through collective effort.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to collaborate with others, whether in school projects or family activities, understanding that teamwork can lead to achieving great results.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness and Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters face various problems that they solve using their ingenuity and the limited resources available to them on the island.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively and use their resources wisely to solve problems in their daily life, fostering independence and critical thinking.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: The siblings experience numerous setbacks on the island, but they continuously adapt and persevere, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of perseverance in the face of difficulties, whether it is dealing with a tough school subject or overcoming personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: Living on the island, the children develop a deep appreciation for the environment and learn to live sustainably with the natural resources available to them.
Real-World Application: This can instill in children a respect for nature and an understanding of the importance of sustainable living practices.