The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found
#4 of 7 in The Vanderbeekers Series
on Goodreads (4,086)
What’s inside...
New York Times bestseller Karina Yan Glaser brings everyone’s favorite Harlem family back in this poignant fourth novel in the 'delightful and heartwarming' (New York Times Book Review) Vanderbeekers series. When autumn arrives on 141st Street, the Vanderbeekers are busy helping Mr. Beiderman get ready for the New York City Marathon and making sure the mysterious person sleeping in the community garden gets enough to eat. But when they discover the true identity of the person making a home in the community garden’s shed, their world turns upside down as they learn what it means to care for someone in an impossible situation. In this fourth book in the Vanderbeekers series, return to 141st Street with Isa, Jessie, Oliver, Hyacinth, and Laney as they attempt to make their neighborhood a better place, one heartfelt plan at a time.
Discussion points
What do you think about the siblings' relationship in 'The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found'? How do they support each other?
How did the Vanderbeekers react to challenges in the story? What can we learn from their reactions?
What role does the community around the Vanderbeekers play in the story? Why is community important?
How did the changes in the Vanderbeekers’ neighborhood affect the characters? How do you feel about changes in our own community?
Which character do you relate to the most and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think deeply about the themes in 'The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found' by asking them about their favorite moments and what they think about the family dynamics. Highlight the role of resilience and community, drawing parallels to your child's own experiences. Discuss the character's actions and decisions, asking your child how they might have handled similar situations. This fosters empathy and critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Community Involvement
Explanation: In 'The Vanderbeekers Lost and Found', the Vanderbeeker children rally together to solve various community issues, showcasing the importance of being active participants in their neighborhood.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in local community events, understanding the impact of their contributions and learning about teamwork and social responsibility.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story illustrates how the Vanderbeeker children strive to understand people’s problems and feelings, particularly when helping a mysterious person they care about.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate the perspectives of others around them, improving their interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: The Vanderbeekers encounter various challenges throughout the book, but they consistently demonstrate resilience and perseverance, never giving up despite the obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own challenges with a positive attitude, understanding that persistence is key to overcoming difficulties.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Togetherness
Explanation: Throughout the book, the strong bond among the Vanderbeeker siblings is emphasized, showing how they support and rely on one another.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of family unity and being supportive siblings, helping them foster stronger family relationships.