Sunday Super Sleuths

This is our first Sunday Super Sleuths challenge. If you missed the previous post, you can find it here. It explains what this is all about. 

August's mystery book to explore is called "Max and Maddy and the Bursting Balloons Mystery" by Alexander McCall Smith. This is a great chapter book, especially for readers new to longer chapter books. This one is 128 pages. Max and Maddy go on several adventures, so check out some of their other mysteries if you like this one. 

It's encouraged that you read the book with your child, even if he or she is a great independent reader. By reading with your child, you can pose questions and encourage him or her to pause and think while reading. (Not to mention it's great bonding time!) 

After each chapter:

1. Ask your child what the mystery is and if there are any new layers to the mystery.
2. Ask your child what just happened and if there are any new clues to solve the puzzle.
3. Ask your child what he or she think will happen next.

Did you like the book? Join the discussion on Facebook! Stay tuned for the Monthly Mystery challenge in one week.

New series: Sunday Super Sleuths

Since the regular book selections are picture books targeted for children from birth to age 4, I wanted to create something fun for the older kids. Thus Sunday Super Sleuths was born! On the first Sunday of every month, I'll choose a mystery book geared toward children ages 5-8, depending on maturity level. These go beyond the Goosebumps and Nancy Drew books, too.


Throughout the month, you and your child get to read a book and help the main character solve a mystery. When you've finish, come back here to find your Monthly Mystery Challenge and become sleuths to solve it. You can take it a step further and encourage your child to write down the adventures and create their own little mystery book.


Check out the Facebook page to share clues and your child's writing with other parents.

*The first Sunday Super Sleuth post will be published today, and the first Monthly Mystery Challenge will be available in one week, on the 14th.