Because my special rock is missing, we are in the middle of a mystery at MLK School. It is also an opportunity for us to learn about mysteries as a genre that we can read--or even write!
When talking about mysteries with our children, we should try to identify the typical parts of a mystery. The following from http://library.thinkquest.org might be helpful:
A mystery story has a certain outline that it needs to follow. It has specifics that relate to the characters, setting, plot, problem and solutions. First, characters should have a good physical description. The main character is the one who should get to the bottom of the mystery and solve the mystery. The main character(s) may make a mistake and get tangled into the plot. Other characters involved in the story assist or deter the main character in each of the mysteries stories. Next, the setting should be a familiar place where you can close your eyes and picture where the story is taking place. The setting creates interest and excitement. Next, your mystery should be filled with action and suspense. Something exciting should occur in the beginning to get the reader interested in the story. The mystery has a problem to solve, like who committed a crime or where something is hidden. Clues are embedded in the story and should be analyzed to solve the story. Finally, the solution should be believable. The clues must be included in the story with no surprises available for the reader to uncover. If you are interested in writing a mystery keep these key mystery elements in mind. As you read the individual pages about the selected mystery series you can see how the authors of famous mystery series use these elements too!
