Three Times Lucky
#1 of 4 in Mo & Dale Mysteries Series
on Goodreads (25,496)
What’s inside...
The book revolves around the story of Mo LoBeau, a rising sixth-grader in the small town of Tupelo Landing, NC, who along with her best friend Dale Earnhardt Johnson III, becomes involved in a mystery when a local man is found murdered. A Newbery Honor Book and described as having an irresistible Southern narrator—a literary descendant of Scout Finch. Mo LoBeau lives in Tupelo Landing, NC, where she was washed ashore during a hurricane eleven years ago. She dreams of finding her 'upstream mother,' but has found a home with the Colonel, a café owner, and Miss Lana, the café hostess. When a lawman comes to town to investigate a murder, Mo and Dale set out to uncover the truth to protect the only family Mo has ever known. The book is praised for its distinctive voice and strong characters.
Character compass
Moses 'Mo' Lobeau
Detective Joe Starr
Dale Earnhardt Johnson Iii
Colonel
Miss Lana
Robert Slate
Discussion points
How did Mo's search for her Upstream Mother change her perceptions of family and belonging?
What do you think about the town of Tupelo Landing and its residents? How do they support each other in times of need?
Discuss how the main characters confront and overcome their challenges. Which character's journey resonated with you the most?
How does the theme of luck play out through the story? Do you believe that Mo was 'three times lucky'?
In what ways did the mystery influence the relationships between characters? How did it affect their growth?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s themes, such as community, resilience, or family, to help your child feel comfortable expressing their opinions.
Ask your child to relate the story to their own experiences. For example, inquire if they’ve ever felt lucky and why, drawing parallels to Mo's adventures.
Encourage your child to think about the setting of Tupelo Landing by asking them to imagine living in a similar town. Discuss how the setting impacts the story.
Use the characters’ challenges to discuss problem-solving and resilience, asking your child how they might handle similar situations.
After discussing a question, ask your child if they have any questions of their own about the story, encouraging them to think critically about the plot and characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of community and support systems
Explanation: In 'Three Times Lucky', the protagonist, Mo, is surrounded by a tight-knit community that supports each other through various challenges. This depiction emphasizes the value of having a supportive community.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and contribute to their own communities, understanding the significance of supporting and being supported by others.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Mo faces several personal and communal obstacles, yet she remains resilient and resourceful. This helps demonstrate to children how perseverance can overcome hardships.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to develop resilience and to face their personal challenges with courage and determination.
Example Lesson: The impact of friendship
Explanation: Mo’s relationships with her peers, including her best friend Dale, illustrate the deep impact that friendship can have in overcoming life’s trials. Their mutual support and loyalty are central to the story.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to foster strong, positive relationships with their peers, understanding the value of true friendship in navigating life’s ups and downs.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and critical thinking
Explanation: The mystery at the heart of 'Three Times Lucky' requires Mo and Dale to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to uncover the truth.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to approach their problems with a critical eye, enhancing their analytical skills in real-world situations.
Example Lesson: Understanding and compassion
Explanation: Mo learns to understand and forgive the varied flaws of people in her life, showcasing the importance of compassion and empathy.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children learn to be more understanding and compassionate towards others, recognizing everyone’s unique circumstances and challenges.