Xylophones above Zarundi
Jocelyn Osgood Series
on Goodreads (63)
What’s inside...
While on a stopover in the mysterious African country of Zarundi, Jocelyn Osgood—that well-known Valkyrian Airways Flight Attendant and good friend of Cairo Jim—becomes unwittingly embroiled in the theft of a priceless royal tiara. She and her friend, Joan Twilight, find themselves thrown into a world of subtle chaos which carries them across an intriguing and colourful landscape as they try desperately to locate the stolen regalia and two renegade Tropical Xylophonists.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
266 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made the xylophones sound so magical in the story?
Why do you think the characters were drawn to the land of Zarundi?
How did the characters' journey to Zarundi change their views or feelings?
What would you do if you found a xylophone above Zarundi?
How do you think the story would be different if it took place near where we live?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive and animated tones while discussing the magical elements of the story to spark your child's imagination.
Ask your child to describe their vision of Zarundi, encouraging creative thinking and personal interpretation of the book’s settings.
Relate the characters' emotions and experiences to real-life scenarios your child might encounter, enhancing empathy and understanding.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or adventures in Zarundi, fostering creativity and narrative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: In 'Xylophones above Zarundi', characters collaborate to solve puzzles, highlighting the value of working together to achieve goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or during play, learning to cooperate and value each other’s input.
Example Lesson: Respecting cultural differences
Explanation: The story explores diverse cultures in the fictional world of Zarundi, teaching respect for different customs and traditions.
Real-World Application: Kids can show respect for diverse cultures by engaging with various cultural activities, asking questions, and showing interest in their peers’ backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: The characters use creative thinking to navigate challenges, showcasing the power of imaginative problem solving.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to use their creativity in school projects or imaginative play, developing unique solutions to obstacles they encounter.
Example Lesson: The joy of exploration
Explanation: The adventure in Zarundi ignites curiosity and the joy of discovering new places, even if they are imaginative.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore their own environments, whether through reading, outdoor activities, or creative games, fostering a sense of adventure and curiosity.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the characters face various challenges but demonstrate bravery and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face everyday challenges such as trying new activities or standing up for themselves, inspired by the courage of the characters.