Third Graders Discover the Thrill of Mystery at Peck

This spring, third graders at The Peck School are diving into a brand-new genre: mystery! Swapping out their usual biography unit, students are now reading two exciting and age-appropriate mystery books—Summer of the Woods by Steven K. Smith and a title from the National Park Mystery Series by Aaron Johnson.

Each book is set in a different U.S. region, which ties perfectly into Peck’s regional studies in social studies. “It was a total win,” said the Third Grade Homeroom Teacher Nichole Bolio. “We found books that are engaging, connected to geography, and part of a series—so the kids want to keep reading!”

Students started with a fun prediction activity and are now building key skills like vocabulary, sequencing, and plot analysis. They’re learning how mystery authors leave clues, build suspense, and keep readers guessing.

With so many more books in each series, it’s a mystery adventure that could continue long after the unit ends.