Time: A Jason Caldwell Mystery
Jason Caldwell Mystery Series
on Goodreads (11)
What’s inside...
Discovering Alabama producer Roger Reid, author of acclaimed young adult novels Longleaf and Space, continues the saga of teenage sleuth Jason Caldwell in his new mystery adventure, Time. Set at the Steven C. Minkin Paleozoic Footprint Site in north Alabama-the richest source of vertebrate trackways of its age in the world-Time is a fast-moving story that incorporates factual information about geology and paleontology into its intriguing tale of suspicion and pursuit. This witty and educational book will captivate middle-school readers of all ages. In Time, Jason is reunited with his friend Leah from Longleaf, with whom he again solves a mystery and survives danger. Leah is as smart and plucky a tomboy as ever, but Jason can't help noticing this time that she's also an attractive girl. Are they friends or boy-girl friends? They aren't sure, but readers will recognize a teen romance even if the principals don't. The engaging story combines intelligence, courage, and insight with scientific facts and exciting adventure.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-8
Length
152 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Jason so curious about solving the mystery? What would you do if you were in his place?
How do you think teamwork helped Jason and his friends solve the mystery? Can you think of a time when working together helped you solve a problem?
What are some of the important clues that Jason found that helped him solve the mystery? How did he use his reasoning skills to put these clues together?
How do the different settings in the book contribute to the story's mood? Which location was the most interesting to you and why?
If you could ask Jason one question about his adventure, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, show genuine interest in your child's responses. This shows that their thoughts and opinions are valued.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them how they would handle similar situations that Jason faced in the book.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and friendship as depicted in the book, relating it to your child’s own experiences with friends or during group activities.
Use the different settings in the story as a launching point to ask your child to describe or draw their favorite scene, enhancing their engagement and comprehension.
After a reading session, motivate your child to predict what might happen next in the story or in a hypothetical sequel, bolstering their creativity and anticipation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: In 'Time: A Jason Caldwell Mystery,' the protagonist, Jason, faces numerous challenges but remains determined to solve the mystery, demonstrating perseverance throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to keep trying and not give up easily when they face difficulties in schoolwork or any tasks at home.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: Jason collaborates with friends to gather clues and solve the mystery, showing that teamwork can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of working together with classmates or siblings to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: The process of solving the mystery requires Jason to think critically and make logical connections between different pieces of information.
Real-World Application: Children learn to analyze situations and make reasoned decisions, which is a valuable skill in academic settings and personal life.
Example Lesson: Respect for others
Explanation: Jason shows respect for all individuals he interacts with during his investigation, regardless of their opinions or background.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of respecting peers and adults, fostering a positive and inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: Jason’s adventure is driven by his curiosity, leading him to learn and observe new information that helps solve the mystery.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be curious about the world around them, promoting lifelong learning and exploration.