The Secret under the Whirlpool
on Goodreads (14)
What’s inside...
The Secret under the Whirlpool is a children's mystery novel by Elaine Breault Hammond. The story follows a group of kids who stumble upon a mysterious underwater cave while on a summer vacation. As they explore the cave, they uncover a hidden treasure and must work together to keep it safe from a group of treasure hunters. The book is filled with adventure, friendship, and the excitement of solving a thrilling mystery. Additionally, Maggie is spending the summer at her great aunts when she begins to explore the area and discovers a whirlpool leading her into a cave, where the adventure begins for Maggie and Marc.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt when they discovered the secret under the whirlpool?
What would you have done if you were in their place?
Why is it important to work together when facing a big challenge?
What did you learn about bravery from the story?
How can we apply the lessons from the book to our daily lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s theme and ask your child to do the same. This can lead to deeper insights and shared perspectives.
Relate the story to real-life situations. Discuss how teamwork and bravery can solve problems in everyday scenarios.
Ask your child to draw or create something inspired by the book. This opens up a discussion about specific elements they found interesting or meaningful.
Encourage your child to ask questions about the story and characters. This stimulates curiosity and interactive engagement.
After reading, revisit the book’s climax. Discuss alternative endings with your child to encourage creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist of the book faces numerous challenges under the whirlpool but refuses to give up, demonstrating courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and continue trying, even when they encounter difficulties.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity and learning
Explanation: The story emphasizes the protagonist’s quest for knowledge and truth about the mysterious whirlpool, instilling a love for learning.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore, ask questions, and seek answers about the world around them.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The protagonist teams up with friends to solve the mystery, showing that teamwork can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by working together with peers in school projects or in team sports.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and caring for the environment
Explanation: The book promotes environmental awareness as the characters strive to preserve the underwater world.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of protecting nature and encourages responsible behavior towards the environment.
Example Lesson: Respecting differences
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, characters encounter diverse sea creatures and learn to respect their roles in the ecosystem.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace and respect different cultures and viewpoints in their community.