The Swifts
#1 of 2 in The Swifts Series
What’s inside...
Discover the 2023 Nero Book Awards Children's Winner and New York Times bestselling mystery adventure, perfect for fans of Robin Stevens and Lemony Snicket. The story follows Shenanigan Swift, who contrary to her family's expectations set by their tradition involving the Family Dictionary, aspires to be more than just a troublemaker. Her destiny is tested when she needs to solve the attempted murder of Arch-Aunt Schadenfreude. Alongside her sisters and cousin, Shenanigan navigates through a series of murders, a hidden treasure, and numerous suspects, challenging her to redefine her own identity and catch the killer before it's too late. Praised for its humor and intriguing storyline, this mystery novel promises laughter and suspense in a splendid debut.
Discussion points
What do you think makes the Swift family unique?
How do the characters in the book show kindness to one another?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to any of the characters in the story?
What lesson do you think the Swifts learned by the end of the book?
If you could add another character to the story, who would they be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Listen actively, showing interest in their ideas, and relate their experiences to those of the characters. Use the book as an opportunity to explore themes such as teamwork, empathy, and resilience. Help them connect the lessons from the book to real-world scenarios to reinforce understanding and applicability. Celebrate creative thinking by asking your child to imagine new scenarios or endings for the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: The Swifts, a group of lively birds, learn to collaborate to solve problems and navigate challenges throughout the story.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working together with their peers on school projects or in sports, learning the importance of cooperation and achieving goals collectively.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters encounter several obstacles but they learn to overcome them through perseverance and courage, showing resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to not give up easily in difficult situations, whether it be solving a tough puzzle or dealing with conflicts at school.
Example Lesson: Importance of communication
Explanation: Throughout the book, The Swifts learn the value of clear communication, as it helps them avoid misunderstandings and build stronger relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express their thoughts and feelings more clearly and listen to others, which will help them in their interactions with family and friends.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: The Swifts encounter various other birds and creatures, learning to appreciate the differences in others.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to embrace and respect people from different backgrounds and cultures in their community.