WHAT HAPPENED FOX STR (Fox Street, 1)
#1 of 2 in Fox Street Series
What’s inside...
Fox Street was a dead end. In Mo Wren's opinion, this was only one of many wonderful things about it. Mo has lived her whole life on Fox Street and can't imagine anything ever changing--until one unforgettable summer of alarming letters, mysterious errands, and surprising discoveries.
Character compass
Mo Wren
Mercedes
Dottie Wren
Mr. Wren
Discussion points
How do you think Mo feels when she's trying to solve the mystery of Fox Street? Can you relate to her feelings?
What do you think the 'What happened' in the title refers to? How does this mystery affect the characters?
Fox Street seems like a special place. What makes it special to Mo and the other characters?
How do the seasons changing on Fox Street reflect the changes in Mo’s life throughout the story?
Can you think of a time when you helped solve a problem like Mo does? How did it make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Mo’s shoes, and ask them how they would react in similar situations described in the book.
Discuss the significance of community and neighborhood as portrayed in the book, drawing parallels to your own community or surroundings.
Highlight the emotional growth of characters as the story progresses, prompting your child to think about how they have grown or changed recently.
Use the changing settings—from summer to fall—as a metaphor for changes in life, asking your child about changes they’ve noticed in their own world.
Before turning the page on suspenseful moments, pause and ask your child what they think might happen next, building anticipation and engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story portrays characters from diverse backgrounds and situations, allowing readers to see the world from different perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and empathize with peers who may come from different cultural or socio-economic backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Courage in Facing Challenges
Explanation: The protagonist encounters various challenges, teaching kids about resilience and bravery in difficult situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children in managing personal challenges, encouraging them to tackle obstacles with courage.
Example Lesson: Importance of Community
Explanation: The story highlights support systems within a community and how characters come together to help each other.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of being active members of their community, promoting cooperation and support.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, the importance of loyalty and trust among friends is emphasized, enriching social development.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to nurture and cherish friendships, understanding how meaningful connections impact their lives.