10 Mentor Texts for Teaching Mysteries to Kids

Mysteries are a thrilling and exciting genre that kids love to read. If you're a teacher looking to introduce this genre to your class, one way to get your students hooked is to give them mentor texts. Mentor texts are books that model excellent writing and provide examples of literary elements like plot, characterization, and theme. The good news is that there is a variety of mentor texts available for teaching mysteries to kids. In this post, we'll explore 10 of the best mentor texts for teaching mysteries to kids.

1. The Sisters Grimm: This book series by Michael Buckley is perfect for introducing the mystery genre to students. The books feature two sisters, Sabrina and Daphne Grimm, who are descendants of the famous Brothers Grimm. In each book, the girls solve a mystery that involves a fairy tale character. The books are funny, exciting, and engaging for kids in grades 3-6.

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2. A-Z Mysteries: Ron Roy's A-Z Mysteries are a classic in the mystery genre. Each book features a different mystery that follows the letters of the alphabet, starting with The Absent Author and ending with The Zombie Zone. The books are perfect for teaching students about the elements of a mystery and how to solve one.

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​3. Geronimo Stilton: The Geronimo Stilton series by Elisabetta Dami is a great way to introduce younger students to the mystery genre. The books follow Geronimo, a mouse journalist, as he solves different mysteries. The books are packed with humor, adventure, and colorful illustrations that will keep students engaged.

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4. The Westing Game: This classic book by Ellen Raskin is a must-read for any teacher looking to teach mysteries. The book features a group of heirs who gather to hear the will of millionaire Samuel W. Westing. The will sets in motion a mystery that the heirs must solve to win the inheritance. The book is filled with puzzles, clues, and surprises that will keep students engaged.

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5. The Name of this Book Is Secret: Pseudonymous Bosch's book is a perfect blend of humor, adventure, and mystery. The book follows two friends as they try to uncover the mystery behind a secret potion. The book is full of mysterious clues, codes, and puzzles that will keep students hooked.

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6. The Mysterious Benedict Society: This book by Trenton Lee Stewart is perfect for upper elementary and middle school students. The book follows four gifted children who are chosen to go on a secret mission to save the world. The book is full of puzzles, clues, and strategies for solving mysteries.

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​7. The Secret Series: Enid Blyton's Secret Series is a classic mystery series for kids. The books feature four children who form a secret society to solve mysteries. The books are full of adventure, puzzles, and secrets that will keep students engaged.

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8. The Case of the Missing Marquess: Nancy Springer's book is perfect for introducing students to the mystery genre. The book follows Enola Holmes, the younger sister of famed detective Sherlock Holmes, as she solves the mystery of her missing mother. The book is full of puzzles, clues, and interesting characters that will keep students engaged.

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9. The Sherlock Holmes Stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle - There is no doubt that Sherlock Holmes is one of the most influential detectives in the world of literature. The Sherlock Holmes Stories are a great tool for teaching kids problem-solving skills.

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10. Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein - This book combines mystery and adventure, keeping kids hooked till the end. The story follows a group of kids who have to escape a library by solving puzzles and clues.

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​Mysteries are an excellent way to engage kids in reading. These 10 mentor texts can help you teach kids of all ages the art of solving mysteries. Use these books as a tool to teach your students the importance of critical thinking, analytical skills, and teamwork. So, what are you waiting for? Get your hands on these books and start solving mysteries with your students today!