The Heroic Misadventures of Maci and Roland by M.L. Florez

What worked:

Roland is Maci’s loyal dog but the author’s creative writing elevates him to an important character. Roland can’t talk but the narrator presents his thoughts as though he can communicate. Maci speaks to Roland as though he can understand human speech and his actions give the impression that she’s correct. He has a stubborn streak and tends to negotiate for things he wants. Maci enters him into the town’s hero competition which requires him to complete several difficult tasks; pie eating is not one of the hard ones. Roland gets frustrated or distracted at times and won’t get focused again until Maci offers him rewards. It’s not hard to imagine that Roland is smart enough to manipulate Maci into handing out more rewards.

Maci enjoys dark, gloomy things and she’s happiest being alone. Or is she? She begins to realize she’d like to have a friend (other than Roland) but her love for gothic things makes it more challenging. She learns that baking cookies is harder than she thought and the cheer she writes for cheerleading tryouts isn’t well-received. Maci’s character is forced to reflect on the person she’s becoming and decide if she needs to change. Living in a colorful town with joyful, positive citizens presents challenges for Maci’s happiness. Luckily, she has an open mind and is willing to make changes in her life. However, she eventually learns that she must be true to herself.

What didn’t work as well:

The story moves at a good pace so readers can’t finish it fairly quickly. However, it also means that character and plot development aren’t as detailed as they might be. Readers may miss learning more about Maci’s new friendships and the changes she undergoes.

The final verdict:

This is an emotional tale of a young, gothic girl trying to fit in. Roland is the most entertaining character as he supports Maci’s transformation. Overall, this book will appeal to dog lovers and young readers trying to find their ways and I recommend you give it a shot.

Keeper of the Rend by Lisa Maxwell

What worked:

Although not the most glamorous conflict, Xavier’s relationship with his family is strained. His father loses his job so the family is forced to live with his aunt in the country. Xavier has mixed emotions when his father wants to start spending time with him. Xavier likes the surprising attention but he’s unsure how to navigate these uncharted waters. The activities his father suggests always include his older brother, which is a problem. Xavier’s brother is a bully and harasses Xavier whenever he gets the chance. His parents aren’t helpful or supportive so Xavier is forced to deal with his brother alone. His mother is always busy working on the computer and she’s not happy to be disturbed.

Xavier is a bird LOVER but his family doesn’t understand his obsession with them. Many chapters begin with words written by Milton Von Wipple II, Xavier’s naturalist hero. These words sometimes hint at what’s to come although some parts disparage children. The ensuing chapters begin with humorous apologies and explanations for what Von Wipple says. Xavier soon meets Clem, a girl living on the farm next door, and he likes that she gets him. However, she can be abrasive and Xavier is annoyed that she always calls him Fletch; she says he looks more like a Fletch than a Xavier. Clem informs him about the Rend, a tear in the sky between two worlds, and Carriers that bring Crumbs into the world. The Carriers must be stopped immediately or the Crumbs will eventually allow dark and cold from the Nether to take over the world. The Nether will suck the warmth and life out of every living thing.

The Carriers are most intriguing because they appear to be normal birds. This fits perfectly with Xavier’s passion for birds although he doesn’t notice the difference right away. Actually, he stops Clem from killing a Carrier he thinks is a bird and inadvertently escalates the problem. Xavier and Milton Von Wipple inform readers about birds and nature in general while Clem shares her knowledge of Carriers. The peacefulness of the countryside and the beautiful innocence of birds contrast sharply with the impending gloom and danger of the Carriers. Xavier is averse to killing things and Clem’s slingshot has its limits. How are these two kids going to stop the Nether from invading through the Rend?

What didn’t work as well:

The book doesn’t have a great hook. Also, some parts of the story are repetitive and become noticeable. Clem describes how the world is in danger and the Carriers are becoming a bigger problem than she’s ever seen. In response, Xavier constantly asks if it’s time to notify her father but Clem always quashes those ideas.

The final verdict:

The wonderfully written book shares the complicated issues of family life, friendship, and saving the world. The climactic ending helps the characters grow into more understanding people. I recommend you give this book a shot.

Cincinnati Lee, Curse Breaker by Heidi Heilig

What worked:

The book opens with Natalie (she’d rather be called Cincinnati since that’s where her “Pops” lives) stealing an artifact from the museum where her mother works. However, her cousin Sebastian steals it from her so Cincinnati will need to get it back to break a family curse. Readers can imagine there are many curses to exorcise since Pops stole hundreds of relics from their original sites. It’s Cincinnati'’s intention to retrieve all those artifacts from museums around the world and return them to their countries of origin. It seems like an insurmountable task for a twelve-year-old seventh-grader.

Cincinnati’s never been too concerned about making friends since she has a scholarship to a private school of students with wealthy parents. Who cares about a bunch of snooty kids? Her best friend is Sebastian, the son of another museum worker. Sebastian is highly knowledgeable with a talent for creating replicas of ancient relics. Cincinnati comes to the aid of another anti-social student named Parsley and she surprisingly wants to be Cincinnati’s friend. Parsley would like to keep her family life secret but Cincinnati’s impulsiveness makes that a challenge. The unlikely trio band together to help Cincinnati break her family’s curse.

The Spear of Destiny creates the challenge that drives the adventure. Cincinnati’s initial plans to break her family’s curse are a complete flop so finding the spear may be the solution. This challenge is even more difficult due to other relic hunters competing with her plus it’s almost impossible to keep it a secret from her mom. The identities of the hunters may surprise Cincinnati but she’s shocked to discover one of them is willing to kill. The Spear of Destiny holds its own curse that’s confounded relic hunters since the time of Christ. The spear’s holder may get all of their wishes fulfilled but its downside might ruin their life.

What didn’t work as well:

Some readers might be bothered by Cincinnati’s friendship with Parsley. Too often, Cincinnati uses Parsley’s resources to further her treasure hunting so the foundation of their friendship is questionable. Parsley is looking for adventure in her life but Cincinnati’s sincerity toward her friend feels wrong. However, Cincinnati’s behavior provides room for her to grow as a person.

The final verdict:

This book will appeal to lovers of ancient relics and folklore. The livers of Cincinnati and her mother are centered around archaeology and Cincinnati’s main motivation is resolving the curses that have plagued her family for years. It’s a fast-paced adventure and I recommend you give it a shot. 

Quest for the Wishing Stone (Dungeoneer Adventures 3) by Ben Costa & James Parks

What worked:

Coop Cooperson leads a ragtag team of students as they learn exploring skills at the Dungeoneer’s Academy. The world is threatened by a group of dropouts and expelled students called the Elites who’ve been misled by Rake Lazler. He’s searching for the last shard of the Wishing Stone which will make him unstoppable. Coop thinks the greatest dungeoneer ever, Shane Shandar, will stop the Exiles until he realizes Shane may be in trouble. Coop’s Green Team embarks on a quest into the Abyss to rescue their hero and find the last piece to the Wishing Stone before Rake.

The story includes character relationships, like Coop’s crush on one of his teammates. He’s overwhelmed with emotions when he tries to talk to Daz so he doesn’t know if she feels the same way. A former bully named Zeek offers another conflict when he tries to change his ways.  Most of the other students doubt his sincerity but Coop believes everyone deserves a second chance. This creates friction when Zeek wants to join the quest and Coop’s best friend Oggie is especially upset. Oggie and Coop were the main targets of Zeek’s bullying and Oggie isn’t so quick to forgive.

A wide variety of creatures comprise the cast of characters with Coop being one of the few humans. Readers don’t need to be overly concerned about remembering their characteristics since illustrations can be found on most pages. The most unique descriptions are that Oggie is very large and Mindy can fly. The Abyss reveals impressive monsters to threaten the dungeoneers. A giant worm can eat its way through stone, another monster is made of rocks, and the Exiles fly atop huge bat-like beasts. The characters believed many of the monsters were extinct so Daz is just as excited to see them as she is being terrified.

What didn’t work as well:

The series seems to come to a satisfying end until questions are asked about two of the Exiles. The questions open the door for a sequel even though it sounded like everything was wrapped up only pages earlier.

The final verdict:

Readers can enjoy this adventure even if they haven’t read the previous two books in the series. Coop’s positivity, trust, and ability to see the good in people are highlighted, and share kind thoughts with readers. Oggie says Coop is the best of them and he’s willing to stand by people even when it isn’t easy. Readers who enjoy adventures and strange creatures will enjoy this book and I highly recommend you give it a shot!

Someone's Been Messing With Reality by John Hearne

What worked:

Readers aren’t sure what’s happening early in the book so it’s fun to wonder where the plot will go. On a yard camera, Martin sees his father flying from the roof of their house. Martin’s friend Tina has all kinds of wild ideas and she’s convinced his parents must be aliens. I hadn’t read the book’s synopsis yet so I didn’t know she was correct. Readers will become engrossed in the story as Martin tries to figure out why his parents have gone missing. Tina still has all kinds of theories and makes a drastic decision by a tower that dramatically alters the plot.

Enda is a fascinating character even though he barely says a word. He used to do everything with Martin and Tina until he fell from a cliff and damaged his brain. Tina and Martin can still guide him around but he can’t talk to them. He spends much of his time in the shed behind Martin’s house engrossed in a model train set. He doesn’t seem to make any matches when playing the Memory card game even though Martin senses there’s a pattern to his choices. Readers will suspect there’s more to Enda’s character than they see and they’ll anticipate the moment his secrets are revealed.

The author masterfully uses words and language to create moods that will captivate readers. They’ll experience Martin’s shock and confusion when he learns about his father’s talent and his parents’ disappearance. Martin discovers a message from them that creates hope and uncertainty. The author captures the claustrophobic feelings of climbing through narrow mine tunnels and the dark, damp surroundings. Readers feel haunted house emotions when Martin and Tina enter a huge cavern full of alien life. The plot ramps up to a thrilling climax full of terror and exhilaration.

What didn’t work as well:

As with some other books, the synopsis shares more information than it should. The author stimulates readers’ imaginations in the early chapters but the synopsis undermines the possibilities.

The final verdict:

This book works for me. The plot feels fresh and new even though it contains familiar elements of science fiction books. Martin is a sympathetic character as he gets thrown into the middle of a worldwide crisis. This book will appeal to lovers of aliens and action and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Gatekeeper’s Daughter by Susan Reimer

What worked:

This book presents a message that may evoke thoughts of our world today. Legend says, that many years ago people became greedy and took more from the sea than they needed. The Creator decided to separate the humans into four separate communities and the Gatekeeper controls who can enter the sea. People can breathe and talk as they do on land which may surprise some readers; it surprises some characters! Maira, daughter of the Gatekeeper, discovers the cavern mentioned in the synopsis and she fears it may be what created problems before. Of course, she keeps it a secret until strangers come to town. But. has she waited too long to stop disaster from returning?

An internal conflict is found in Maira as she begins to question whether she wants to become the next Gatekeeper. Many readers may relate to problems that come from parental expectations and traditions. Maira’s mother is dead so Maira is happy to help her father. However, gatekeeping and tending to the house don’t leave much time for herself and she wonders what she might be missing in the world. She also fears it’s getting harder to remember her mother. Maira knows the Gatekeeper is vital in guarding the sea but why does it need to be her?

The secret in the Cavern of Light is similar to some other books but it’s also innovative. It shows how greed can blind people to making bad choices and not foresee the consequences. The story addresses how humans sometimes need to protect nature from other humans before it’s ruined beyond repair. Maira takes charge of guarding the cavern although she learns it’s okay to ask for help. In the end, readers will see how Maira displays compassion and forgiveness when the town considers punishment for one of its citizens.

What didn’t work as well:

It’s hard to distinguish life in the sea and life on land since people can talk and breathe in both places. Kids play above and below the water and people garden on land and at the sea bottom. Mental images may be confused unless Maira visits the Cavern of Light.

The final verdict:

Readers can admire Maira’s honesty, caring, and bravery as she struggles in her role as the Gatekeeper’s daughter. Discovering the Cavern of Light creates different levels of conflict but Maira overcomes them in an exciting climax. I recommend you give this book a shot.

Snow Blind (The Talisman Series Vol. 2.5) by Brett Salter

What worked:

This novella begins differently from previous books as it highlights Mr. Jones. He’s the series character who collects the knowledge of Darkbrand creatures while everyone else has the skills to fight them. Mr. Jones has a spell allowing him to teleport to different places worldwide. Most of the books have jumped into the action with dragons and their riders combatting viscous Darkbrands from the Void. This time, Mr. Jones investigates a possible new dragon ally in Antarctica. He is contacted from an email address he doesn’t recognize before being instructed to travel to Antarctica. He stops in Chile along the way where he meets a professional hunter. Readers will know right away that this man is evil and he will cross paths with Mr. Jones again. This is the first book in the series where Darkbrands aren’t a major factor in the plot. The author still finds ways to infuse levity into the story as he’s done in all of the other books.

Readers are introduced to the world of Ice Dragons which is the clan Krysta hails from. Krysta is a character from the second book who has gone through the Great Synergy. The author adds drama when Mr. Jones finds out many of the Ice Dragons aren’t happy that Krysta left, including her father. Yukon doesn’t believe dragons should bond with humans and he’s still angry that dragons were abandoned and hunted by humans in the past. Mr. Jones becomes an ambassador for humans although changing Yukon’s mind may be impossible. A small dragon named Glyph guides Mr. Jones through the caverns and adds a friendly voice to the story.

What didn’t work as well:

There are a couple of jumps to new settings that are unexpected and confusing. One of them describes characters not directly involved in this plot and the other is a flashback inserted into the story. The flashback would make more sense if it appeared right after Yukon is introduced.

The final verdict:

I suggest you read the first two books in the series before reading this novella to get some context into what’s happening. Featuring the quirky Mr. Jones presents a new kind of adventure in the series but brings up some of the same issues. Lovers of dragon stories will enjoy this book and I recommend you give it a shot.

The Vanderhoff Heist (Mystery at the Biltmore 1) by Colleen Nelson

What worked:

Elodie’s parents are famous detectives who investigate art thefts around the world. They won’t let Elodie accompany them on their trips but she’s learned investigative skills from talking with them. She wonders if anyone will want a young girl to investigate their cases but she’s confident she can do the job. A valuable piece of inspiration comes from her housekeeper, Ms. Rosa, who said that just because there hasn’t been a detective her age, why can’t there be one now? Elodie keeps track of clues in her notebook as she explores the elements of all crimes: suspects, motives, and how they were done.

The Biltmore holds many unique personalities as Elodie investigates the theft of Mrs. Vanderhoff’s earrings. Elodie is joined by Oscar, a daredevil young boy who is angry about moving to the hotel. Other residents become suspects although Elodie thinks they’re all so nice that she can’t imagine them as thieves. Mrs. Vanderhoff has accused her housekeeper of the theft but Agnes is the one who contacts Elodie about the crime. Freddie is the friendly doorman who has keys to all of the apartments. An orchid enthusiast had a falling out with Mrs. Vanderhoff and the kids note raising flowers is an expensive hobby. One of the Flying Wallendas lives across the courtyard and could have entered the apartment without using the door. Another resident has transformed his place into a bird sanctuary and might need money to care for them. It’s Elodie’s task to deduce the identity of the real jewel thief.

What didn’t work as well:

The plot is simple without serious complications so more experienced readers may be disappointed. As soon as Elodie finds a suspect she thinks of a reason why it can’t be them. It feels like the last suspect she finds will be the guilty party.

The final verdict:

Elodie is a charming character and the story is perfect for emerging mystery lovers. Cute, color illustrations are included to help bring the characters to life. I recommend you give this book a shot.

The Pinchers and the Curse of the Egyptian Cat (The Pinchers 5) by Anders Sparring & Per Gustavsson

What worked:

The book’s synopsis clearly explains what happens in the book. Theo is the main character and the contrast between his family and him sets the stage for the amusing stories in this series. He’s the only honest member of his thieving family and he can’t even tell a lie. The curse makes this book different from the rest of the series as Theo and his sister Ellen switch places. Theo takes a liking to stealing and lying while Elen gets nervous about breaking the law.

This book is perfect for readers in the lower to middle grades. It has many color illustrations to help readers visualize the Pinchers in their “prison-stripe” shirts and black robber masks. The plot is fast-paced and the short chapters don’t require much stamina. Emerging readers will enjoy feelings of success as they complete chapters while more-able readers can probably finish the book in one sitting. The book can be read independently from the rest of the series, as each has a distinct, separate story. The opening pages present a photo gallery of the Pincher family with descriptions of the characters. Even Granny makes an appearance near the end of the book when she escapes prison to attend Sunday dinner with the family.

What didn’t work as well:

The book doesn’t have many flaws for its young target audience. It’s funny, has pictures, and it’s easy to read. More-able readers may not like the simplicity and they may question some details. However, the book is suitably written for young, emerging readers.

The final verdict:

The fast-paced story with illustrations will appeal to a wide range of young readers. The humor and quirky personalities make the characters relatable. Overall, I recommend you give this amusing book and the series a shot.

Zombie Season 3: Rise of the Ancients

What worked:

Disclaimer: I’ve not read the previous two books so keep that perspective in mind as you read on. The Prologue opens with a battle between humans and a giant zombie that escapes from its frozen prison up in the waters of Alaska. This presumably happened in book two. The main conflict pits humans against zombies that have risen worldwide for many years. They typically become active during warmer months and things calm down again in Autumn. However, something’s changed and there are fears that the zombie attacks will continue longer than they ever have before. Plus, they seem more organized this time. Readers will learn the giant zombie has the mental power to control other zombies and it’s discovered that it can manipulate some humans too.

The other big twist is a revelation that humans can become zombies without dying first. Some characters are aware that they’re changing, some are in denial, and some have no idea what’s happening to them. Regina is one of the main characters and she’s dealing with this problem. Oliver is the only member of her team who knows and he’s helping to keep it secret. Luckily, the chapters focusing on Regina allow readers into her mind so they can see how hard she struggles to suppress the urge to gorge on meat. She knows if she slips up she’ll finally fully transform into a full-on zombie. The fact that there are others like her living among humans means there is the potential for the humans to start fighting themselves.

Stuxville is a haven for humans so refugees flock there from all over for safety. However, living in a protected, enclosed area for a long time means resources will become scarce. There’s a feeling growing among the people that they need to stop accepting new refugees before Stuxville can no longer support everyone living there. Readers may make connections between the story and the real world. Humans are so concerned about their own survival that they become desensitized to the needs of others. The are several areas in the story where the characters compare and contrast human hoarding with the hordes of attacking zombies.

What didn’t work as well:

Different chapters focus on different characters and it’s okay when it’s the four main characters. However, some chapters switch to minor characters which tends to move the attention away from the main personalities. Also, people new to the series will feel like they’re missing the backstory so I recommend you read the first two books before this one.

The final verdict:

The story builds to an exciting climax where it seems all is lost, although the resolution may not be fully satisfying. Overall, the zombies may not be what readers are used to but there are exciting, suspenseful moments. I recommend you give it a shot starting with the first book in the Zombie Season series.

Mirror, Mirror (Creepers) by Edgar J. Hyde

What worked:

The story isn’t overembellished so it’s easy to follow and well-paced. The book opens with the family buying an old mirror from a shop owner and the youngest daughter, Sophie, finding a ballerina doll atop a music box. The family is told the mirror and doll come from the same home so readers will immediately sense something strange will happen. The mirror is hung in the den when Sophie finds herself alone, playing with her music box. She suddenly notices a terrifying scene in the mirror and witnesses a woman having her head chopped off! This kicks off the mystery of the mirror.

Maya and Dani, the two older sisters, are the main characters and middle-grade readers should be able to relate with them. Maya is the oldest child and Sophie thinks nothing can scare her. This characteristic is most handy when dealing with a haunted mirror. Dani is the most scholarly of the children as she’s constantly reading books. This habit makes her intelligent and a perfect partner for Maya. The sisters quickly realize a girl named Sara is keeper of the mirror and they’re determined to find a way to free the spirit.

What didn’t work as well:

The simple text may not appeal to more advanced readers although they often find the topics of spirits and ghosts very interesting.

The final verdict:

This book is a wonderful introduction to scary stories. Its simple text will appeal to reluctant or emerging readers and the subject matter isn’t too intense. I recommend you give it a shot.

The Abandoned Theater (Alderland Series 1) by Dana Robertson

What worked:

The story follows Beth as she wants to investigate the disappearance of a friend named Brent. Readers may be surprised to learn that her two best friends are starkly different from each other. Stan is an unpopular nerd with unusual quirks; he thinks dressing in green shorts, a green shirt, and a green fedora will act as camouflage in the woods. On the other hand, Teri is tall and pretty and she’s one of the most popular girls in school. Readers will know there’s something different about Beth as she wears an amulet that appears to glow. She dreams of places she’s never been only to discover they actually exist. She’s told she was lucky to escape the car accident that killed her parents when she was four but her aunt won’t talk about it. Beth has questions and the answers make her wonder about what she’s been told.

The theater is portrayed as a spooky, dangerous place that is off-limits to everyone. The theater owner disappeared years ago and now Brent is gone too. Beth’s aunt makes Beth promise that she’ll stay away from it but readers know that promise will soon be broken. Stan’s uncle was in the audience when the owner disappeared but he’s unable to recall any details from that night. No one fleeing the theater can remember exactly what happened. This leaves readers to speculate about the possibilities. Are the owner and Brent dead, murdered by an unknown villain? Did the owner’s wife commit the crime? The police bring her in for questioning. Perhaps something more magical is happening that might explain Beth’s amulet and premonitions. Could there be a hidden portal leading to another world?

The author artfully uses words and language to create moods and set scenes. When the kids first travel to the theater, they must maneuver a raft across a lake to reach it. At first, the lake has “gentle waves”, and fresh air “at this early hour”, and the raft drifts as the sun rises. The scene shifts once they make it across as “the sun’s rays flickered”, “an ominous shadow fell over the raft”, and the ground below the cliff was “untamed, overgrown”. Swaying branches seemed to “beckon them forward with long, slender fingers.” Once inside the theater, the kids hear clicking sounds that are “massive black crows” pecking at the skylight, blocking out the sun, “casting a shadow through the theater”.

What didn’t work as well:

The truth behind Beth’s past isn’t too hard to predict for experienced readers. The clues are all there and a character later in the book even tells Beth that she’s probably already figured it out on her own.

The final verdict:

The book’s second half has more action than the first as Beth starts to unravel the truth about her life. Shocking reunions await and Beth becomes an important factor in a war to save all worlds. There’s a medieval feel later in the story with magical elements mixed in. Overall, this should be a fascinating series to follow and I recommend you give this first book a shot.

Spy School Entrance Exam by Stuart Gibbs and Jeff Chen

What worked:

This book is a collection of puzzles enriched by the Spy School characters. The premise of the book is past mistakes led to security breaches and tainted recruitment of new CIA spies. The puzzles in this book present a new step in the screening process to identify intelligent, qualified candidates. After a brief, redacted introduction from the new CIA director, Zoe describes the first set of puzzles, word searches. Zoe has been a kind character in the past so Erica Hale presents a contrasting tone in the next section, different types of codes. Erica says she won’t be as supportive as Zoe since she’s “a spy, not a cheerleader”. Alexander Hale, Erica’s father, continues his tendency to exaggerate past accomplishments as he introduces “Outside the Box” mental challenges. However, Murray Hill, the antagonist in most of the Spy School books, interrupts and shares clever and devious solutions to the challenges. More characters from the series return to share Crypt-to-grams, crosswords, Battleship-like Battle Royale, and other familiar activities.

Many of the puzzle formats will be familiar to middle-grade readers although modifications have been made to make things trickier. Most people have seen Sudoku with numbers but how many are ready for a Sudoku with letters? “Chain Letters of Doom” requires readers to connect all twenty-six letters of the alphabet, in order, without crossing the connecting line. A fun twist to every section is the final puzzle’s hidden, coded messages that will be used later in the book. This detail promotes the book’s spy theme and helps to connect all of the different sections. In addition, all of the text, clues, and explanations are related to readers applying to become new CIA agents and to thoughts of the Spy School series.

Fans of Spy School will enjoy revisiting characters they’ve enjoyed in the past. Ben Ripley talks about his limited qualifications as a CIA agent even though he’s the main character of the series. He introduces Sudoku puzzles while Catherine Hale describes Double-Cross Crosswords. The characters mention previous events and missions so they evoke readers’ memories from other books. The last section of the book shares solutions to all of the puzzles. Of course, Murray Hill’s explanations cover more pages because he must share the clever solutions and then follow with his multiple devious solutions for villains.

What didn’t work as well:

Everyone can enjoy the variety of puzzles but they will need to read previous Spy School books to fully appreciate the characters and narratives. They have unique personalities and there are references to previous moments or relationships in the series. Crossword clues are related to the series so readers will need to have some knowledge of previous books to complete them.

The final verdict:

This book will be a treat for loyal readers although those unfamiliar with the series may not enjoy it as much. The different versions of familiar puzzles and challenges make them more interesting and difficult. Those who enjoy puzzles and Spy School will love this book and I recommend you check it out!

Careful What You Hear (Do You Hear What I Hear 2?) by Helen Dunlap Newton

What worked:

Noah and Lena are sent to Space Camp in Alabama to have a fun, relaxing vacation. However, they both assume it’s going to turn into a mission even though their undercover chaperones insist it won’t. Noah reminds readers of this doubt in almost every chapter until the inevitable happens. The relationship between the kids is a highlight as they tease, support, anger, and care for each other. Lean is extremely intelligent and she has a near-perfect memory. She jumps at the opportunity to point out Noah’s weak areas but then turns around and offers praise when he does things right. Noah tries to kid around with her but Lena doesn’t like being the target of jokes. They have an epic chess match that complicates their relationship.

Readers can still enjoy this book even if they haven’t read the first one in the series, like me. The important things to know are Noah’s cochlear implant allows him to hear others’ thoughts, Noah and Lena go on secret missions for the government, and last time they were captured by a red-headed woman and a man smoking brown cigarettes. Noah thinks he sees them wherever he goes but wonders if it’s just his imagination. Then, Noah bumps into a man touring with a group of teachers from Iowa and his fun trip to Space Camp takes an unexpected turn.

The story shares space-related activities at Space Camp as Noah and Lena pursue their own interests. Lena wants to learn all she can about computers and technology while Noah enjoys tasks that potential astronauts might perform. However, Noah’s cochlear implant presents logistical problems so he’s upset when he can’t do all of the activities. On the other hand, he excels at flying simulations and makes friends with another equally talented camper.  Meeting a Blue Angel pilot is a highlight for Noah while Lena is more excited about the prospect of building her own computer.

What didn’t work as well:

The major conflict involves spies and a military base but the plot isn’t fully satisfying. Noah and Lena are involved with collecting information but they’re not really included in the actual operation. We still don’t know exactly how things work out even at the end of the book. Also, the usage of the term “jinx” is way overdone and becomes a small distraction.

The final verdict:

The kids are protected by removing them from direct involvement in the mission but it leaves readers feeling detached from the action. The concept of using Noah’s cochlear implant as a spying device is unique but the story misses opportunities to make it more exciting and suspenseful. Overall, the team of Noah and Lena is fun to follow and you should this book a shot.

The Doomsday Vault (Everwhen School of Time Travel (and Other ODD Sciences)) by Thomas Wheeler

What worked:

The author’s idea for the special school is quite innovative. Students are chosen from throughout history so they won’t be handicapped by the schools of their times. The school in this book is called Everwhen and it’s actually a time machine! New students at a school usually ask where other students are from but the students in this book ask each other when they are from. Bertie’s dormitory is in 1330 Serbia while his two new friends, Millie and Zoe, share a room in twenty-second-century Paris.

Bertie, Millie, and Zoe offer different internal conflicts and alternating chapters focus on each of them. Bertie doesn’t understand why he’s been invited to the school since he was never a great student in the 1800s. Being ranked last out of all the Everwhen students reinforces that doubt. Millie’s brother is Leonardo Da Vinci so she’s tired of living in his shadow. She has imaginative ideas that don’t receive much attention but loves the opportunities offered at Everwhen. Zoe promised her dying mother that she’d work hard to be the best so she feels pressure to outdo everyone. A second-place ranking impels her to make a rash decision with drastic consequences and her character will offer many surprises.

The plot becomes a mystery of sorts as Bertie leads the effort to uncover secrets. The Haunted Formula is the first major question. It appeared one day on a whiteboard but no one knows who wrote it, or why. A curse is attached to the formula so many fear the consequences of solving it. Other people view it as a challenge. Then, a message appears on the wall of the dean’s office saying they must open the Doomsday Vault. Teachers and students don’t know much about but its name clearly indicates it’s bad.  Add to all of this the disappearance of the dean, Zoe, and others and the author has created a wonderful mystery to solve!

What didn’t work as well:

Time travel is always tricky in books because it can create paradoxes and open very imaginative situations. The fact that the school is a giant time machine leads to some confusion as the setting and time can change immediately when characters move around the facility. It presents a challenge when trying to form mental pictures of what’s happening.

The final verdict:

The story is a wonderfully, imaginative adventure. At the crux of the conflict is a question: What’s wrong with taking advancements from the future to resolve problems in the past?  Some parts of the plot may be challenging to follow but heart-warming events await as it nears the climax. I recommend you give this book a shot.

Quantum Insterstellar Sports League by J. Scott Savage

What worked:

Humor is embedded in the story as Wyatt must win a football championship to save Earth. His entire team lacks any football knowledge or skills and several strange aliens complete the roster. Strange is a subjective term when considering all the other players in the league come from different planets. Wyatt’s team is comprised of drafted players but it looks like they were chosen without any expectation of winning. Wyatt’s parents are champion athletes but Wyatt is happier reading a good book. That’s why his performance is abysmal and he continually tries to quit the team. His teammates remain supportive of him even though their football talents aren’t much better than his. Quake is especially encouraging as he always offers Wyatt comforting hugs and words of appreciation.

The gist of the plot is humans learn to quickly travel in space and return with objects from other planets. Aliens levy fines against Earth for stealing their stuff which leads to the football contest to keep Schnozly Grofsplot from taking over the planet. He’s a greedy, diabolical alien who’s willing to do anything to win control of Earth. His influence is felt during Wyatt’s football games so it seems like the championship is rigged for Earth to lose. Each competing alien team presents unique challenges and the football field is modified to make things more difficult. Flames shooting up from the ground can result in lethal consequences.

Wyatt suffers from self-doubt when compared to his MVP, superstar father. He focuses on things he can’t do and anticipates how he’ll fail and let everyone else down. His infatuation with his teammate Nova motivates him to stick it out plus she tries to help him discover his value to the team. Quake is a giant alien teammate who has an intimidating presence. However, he’s a gentle giant who always has the team’s best interests at heart.

What didn’t work as well:

Some readers may find the book overly silly. Wyatt is almost obsessed with a new drink he’s invented and he’s prone to throwing up when he gets nervous. The players make unusual moves during the games that aren’t always easy to follow. However, the silliness also results in non-stop humorous situations.

The final verdict:

The highlight of the book is how Wyatt’s team learns to work together and take advantage of their abilities. Abundant black-and-white illustrations help readers visualize the story and add entertainment value. It’s clearly an underdog story and I recommend you give it a shot.

Spy School Goes Wild (Spy School 12) by Stuart Gibbs

What worked:

The cast of characters will be familiar to loyal readers led by Ben Ripley. Ben has no impressive spy talents other than being pretty intelligent and excellent at math. Of course, his girlfriend Erica is in stark contrast to Ben. She follows generations of spies in her family tree and she’s as talented as any adult CIA agent. Murray Hill also returns as he’s been Ben’s nemesis since the start of the series. His character has ranged from an inept student at Spy School to the filthy rich leader of an international evil organization. Max has foiled Murray in every previous book so Murray is committed to getting his revenge.

Middle-grade readers will enjoy the author’s sense of humor. While Erica is an outstanding spy, her father comes across as an incompetent exaggerator. The others can roll their eyes when he tries to regale them with his heroic deeds and then have his wife explain what really happened. Murray Hill may be a conniving, evil nemesis but his survival skills are worthless. Ben convinces Murray to quench his thirst by squeezing water from animal poop while Ben discovers a bottle of fresh water for himself moments after Murray finishes. Readers will maintain smiles on their faces as situational humor arises throughout the story.

The author allows the plot to slowly evolve as the main conflict doesn’t begin to emerge until halfway through the book. Ben and Murray become temporary allies when they escape a common threat but Ben suspects a bigger problem is developing. His friends return late in the book and help him prevent a catastrophe. The final fourth of the book is a whirlwind of action. The author includes a lot of information about African wildlife and natural resources found there. The animals are significant elements in the story and add humor and suspense. The mining industry is vital to the African country and the author touches on its impact on the environment.

What didn’t work as well:

Much of the book has Ben and Murray as the only main characters so readers may miss the other personalities from past books. Rest assured they return to resolve the conflict. Ben’s whiny character is a constant presence through the middle of the book which can make him annoying when he isn’t amusing.

The final verdict:

Loyal readers of the series will not be disappointed by this book and new readers can easily jump into the fun. The blend of humor and adventure will appeal to many middle-grade readers and I recommend you give it a shot.

Max in the Land of Lies: A Tale of World War II (Operation Kinderspion) by Adam Gidwitz

What worked:

The first chapter offers a surprise as Max gets help and advice from two creatures, one sitting on each shoulder. No one else can see Stein, a Yiddish-speaking dybbuk, and Berg, a German-accented kobold; these characters add humor and novelty to the story. They often question Max’s decisions especially when he makes decisions that may endanger him. These characters have been alive since before there were countries or civilized humans. They provide historical context for Max and readers as they verify or debunk information shared by the Germans. Stein and Berg are stuck to Max and supply him with moral support until he no longer needs it.

The book includes facts about Germany during WW II; some may not be familiar to young readers. They will undoubtedly have heard of Hitler but this story takes place on the streets among everyday German citizens. These people aren’t universally behind the Fuhrer but it’s dangerous for them to speak against their leader. Citizens are on the lookout for traitors so individuals don’t know who might turn them in for something overheard. The story sheds light on how Hitler could take over the country with German citizens angry and struggling after the international community’s WW I sanctions. The book’s last few pages provide factual information about several characters and their roles in WW II. There’s also a section about the horrifying concentration camps.

Max progresses through his mission much faster than expected so the story has a good pace. The early parts of the book share life among the citizens living on the streets of Berlin while the later chapters find Max interacting with various military figures. Meeting German soldiers creates inherent suspense since Max could be executed at any moment for being a Jewish spy. Max (and especially Stein and Berg) is paranoid when meeting military officers since he’s never sure how much information they have on him. Max is alarmed when Hitler’s chief intelligence officer asks Max to confirm details he’s collected about rumors of a young spy entering Germany. Max survives his first encounter but readers will anticipate the inevitable moment when their paths cross again.

What didn’t work as well:

Max frequently takes risks that might reveal himself as a spy. Stein and Berg try to warn him but Max continues to say and do things that could put him in danger. There are times when these risks make sense but he’s rarely careful. The German officers always react in his favor so it feels like Max is unusually lucky. However, the positive outcomes provide insight into the minds of German citizens and help the plot move along.

The final verdict:

The author does a masterful job of sharing Max’s adventure as a spy, navigating Nazi Germany like a small fish in a pool of sharks. A big takeaway from the book is how it enlightens readers about the thoughts and feelings of German people while Hitler rules. It’s a thought-provoking story and I recommend you give it a shot.

Everything Interesting Keeps Happening to Ethan Fairmont by Nick Brooks

What worked:

This book concludes a trilogy and it can be read independently by readers not too worried about past events. Light-thieves return to invade Earth after destroying the planet of Ethan’s alien friend, Cheese. The alien’s name comes from his favorite food and his family members are named for their favorite tastes: Popcorn, Jelly Bean, Cookie, and little Pizza. Ethan has developed a strong bond with Cheese and the pair insist on always traveling together. It’s appropriate to compare Cheese to the adorable movie alien E.T. because of his innocence and limited communication skills. The highlight of the book is the caring and compassion shared by Ethan and Cheese.

Ethan is the leader of the group and he feels pressure to come up with ideas and inventions. Ethan constantly collects scraps and trash to create new things but he’s thankful for Fatima’s intelligence and logical thinking. Di provides emotional support as her hugs and kind words always make Ethan feel better. Their mutual crush on each other isn’t lost on most of the team. The light-thieves are going to destroy the world but they also have Ethan’s pet guinea pig Nugget. Most of the team agrees that saving Nugget is important but Ethan is angered when RJ doesn’t understand their concern for a “rodent”. Later, Ethan’s role becomes more complicated when his older brothers discover what he’s been up to.

The author presents some conventional and unconventional ideas about our world and the universe. Di has strong feelings about environmental issues so she often talks about recycling and protecting nature. Fatima and Ethan choose not to tell any adults about their alien friends because humans don’t respond well to things they don’t understand. The light-thieves are looking for sources of energy and they focus on organic resources to transform. Di remembers learning about the law of conservation of energy in class which is useful in creating a solution to the conflict. Despite the unusual plot, the story is based on science, creativity, and teamwork.

What didn’t work as well:

Perhaps it was a bigger part in the previous books, but it’s unclear how the light-thieves can harm humans. They never touch any of the characters as poison ivy is used as a strong deterrent. The aliens are determined to capture Cheese and his family and they’re searching for other energy sources on Earth. However, the story doesn’t describe how individual humans can be harmed by them. The book makes them a threat but readers don’t know why. Again, maybe the earlier books provide more information but this book does not.

The final verdict:

This book presents a humorous intergalactic adventure with a strong sense of caring and teamwork. Cheese and his family members are innocent victims and his human friends are willing to do anything to keep them alive. Overall, this book will appeal to lovers of alien stories and I recommend you give it a shot.

Like a Curse (Like a Charm 2) by Ellie McNicoll

What worked:

Ramya is a witch-in-training who is trying to unlock her magical abilities. One thing she can do that others cannot is to see through Glamours that camouflage Hidden Folk. She can spot every troll, vampire, or fae she encounters and she’s immune to the hypnotic songs of the sirens. She also has a special connection to water which comes in handy around Loch Ness. Ramya is neurodivergent so her approaches to interacting with others and reacting in sticky situations lack the tactfulness and nuances that may be “normal”. She tends to be impulsive and blunt. The author is also neurodivergent so she can provide insight into Ramya’s ways of speaking and behaving.

I haven’t read the previous book in the series but apparently, Ramya previously defeated a siren named Portia. Portia is back again as the protagonist and she controls the minds of humans in Edinburgh and rounding up Hidden Folk. The conflict centers on Portia’s search for a creature hiding in the depths of Loch Ness that isn’t Nessie. No one knows what the beast might be and many doubt it exists. Coincidentally, or not, Ramya is hiding behind a powerful Glamour near Loch Ness with her aunts and cousin. She’s frustrated and angry that her parents are in Edinburgh and no one will let her help confront Portia.

The cast of minor characters offers an unusual variety of personalities to assist Ramya. Her cousin Marley is human and doesn’t have any special abilities other than his loyalty and faith in her. He believes Ramya whenever she sees things he cannot and he willingly goes along with her rash decisions. They meet a dryad named Alona and are shocked that she can’t transform into a huge oak tree or a single, small leaf. Ramya has a good friend named Freddy who happens to be a siren. Marley questions their relationship since sirens are the bad guys in this book. Ramya learns a stunning truth about Freddy later in the book that should make her suspicious.

What didn’t work as well:

Ramya isn’t close to mastering her powers yet but she’s determined to stop Portia on her own. Her Aunt Opal is the most formidable witch Ramya knows and even Opal knows it’s fool-hardy to face the powerful siren. Ramya’s inner instincts usually come to the rescue when her life is in danger so it often feels like she gets lucky.

The final verdict:

I’m sure the first book has an exciting adventure of its own but this book can be read independently. Ramya may be rash and reckless but she has strong, unwavering feelings for family and friends. Loch Ness holds unexpected surprises and twists for the plot and the climax leaves readers wondering about Portia’s future. Overall, I recommend you give this book a shot.

Beti and the Little Round House

What worked:

The narrator’s voice is written in the present tense and tells the story of Beti’s life with her family and friends in the woods. It’s divided into four sections based on the four seasons. The author connects the different sections by opening with the same two paragraphs in a repetitive format. The short stories in each part then develop into their own plots. An “Author’s Note” in the book’s first pages informs readers that she lived a life of “… magic, and of mud” in a roundhouse built in the woods of Wales. It seems that experience has inspired her to write this book.

The writing style is very simple and easy to read and will most appeal to emerging middle-grade readers. Each season’s story concerns a possible common occurrence when living in the woods. For example, Beti’s birthday is celebrated during the Spring but her party doesn’t turn out as she expects. Her main gift is a goat and its baby and these curious, energetic pets add confusion and mayhem to Beti’s expectations. In the Summer, Beti is grouchy from watching her little brother so her father asks her to retrieve some water from where it’s stored daily. However, the baby goat, appropriately named Naughty, complicates this everyday chore and Beti needs help from her friends to complete it.

The wholesomeness of Beti’s life and the author’s artful descriptions of nature are the most endearing parts of the book. The true love displayed by Beti and her family never falters even when they experience rocky moments. The woods come to life through the author’s carefully crafted words. This is highlighted in the Autumn story when Beti is stuck in a torrential rainstorm she calls a dragon. It “spits rain onto her clutching hands” and “tugs the raincoat out of her fingers.” The dragon “snatches her shout away” and it roars at her and pushes her back. The author sketches vivid mental pictures throughout the book for readers to enjoy.

What didn’t work as well:

References to modern technology don’t work. The setting feels secluded in the woods and everything Beti does focuses on nature and family. Referencing a cell phone or city traffic stands out and taints the beautiful images of flowers, trees, and wildlife. Including signs of civilization emphasizes the importance of enjoying the people and surroundings in the present but the mention of technology doesn’t fit the overall setting. It’s not necessary.

The final verdict:

This book would be excellent for reading aloud as the author’s descriptions come to life. The positive messages and lack of complexity make it a perfect fit for young middle-grade readers. I recommend you give it a shot.

Gleam: Semma and the Secret of Stuffmore by Kurt Christiansen

What worked:

The story is told from Semma’s point of view as she lives in an orphanage with her twin sister Trooni. They retrieve their cousin, Rascal, to search for their only living relative, an old, estranged uncle named Bumbrain. Their previous guardian’s last wish was that the cousins should not, under any circumstances, have any form of contact with Uncle Bumbrain. This adds intrigue to the story when Semma and Trooni set off to seek him out on their twelfth birthday. The man has always sent them gifts and he’s the only positive thing left in their lives. What could go wrong with meeting him in Stuffmore?

The characters offer distinct, contrasting personalities. Trooni is very logical and linear as she immediately tries to create step-by-step plans for every situation. She tends to lose her cool when others make spontaneous decisions and Rascal kiddingly calls her “Mom”. Rascal’s lack of inhibition makes him the exact opposite of his cousin. He wants to have fun and he’s prone to running off on his own. Semma’s personality is full of emotions and kindness toward others and she’s especially loyal to her twin sister. She wants to be part of a loving family. Semma gets feelings about her surroundings that others do not and she begins to have visions too once they reach Stuffmore. The visions complicate the plot and lead it new directions.

Greed is a major topic in the book and it doesn’t paint a pretty picture. Everyone in Stuffmore is obsessed with their standing on the city’s happiness list and all of their time is spent trying to move up. Even Uncle Bumbrain quickly gets back in the race after he appears to be pleased about the children’s arrival. Citizens fill their days doing non-stop shopping without spending time looking at what they’re bought. Semma becomes concerned when her uncle, sister, and cousin don’t leave even a moment to use what they’ve purchased or to have friendly talks as a family. The motivating idea in Stuffmore is quantity since having everything you might possibly want will make you happy.

What didn’t work as well:

Readers may wonder how the citizens are able to keep continuously buy more stuff every day when no one has a job. Buying bigger houses and cars will move a person up the happiness list but why can’t everyone do that? Where are all these products made and what limits citizens from buying everything? The list creates a hierarchy of citizens that promotes competition to buy more stuff.

The final verdict:

This wacky adventure into another world shares a lesson in greed and the search for happiness. The characters battle real-life inner thoughts and feelings that are taken to extreme levels. The blend of humor, serious, and zany will appeal to many young, able readers and I recommend you give this new series a shot.

The Secret in the Tower by Andrew Beattie

What worked:

Jack Broom is an endearing character who balances doing his apothecary duties for Old Mother Cobb with avoiding her beatings for being late or messing up. He scrapes together any money he has to buy medical books as he dreams of becoming a surgeon’s apprentice. He’s treated rudely by the king’s guard and suspects he’s being spied on. He tries to survive his difficulties as best he can and finally finds a friend in a girl named Alice. He’s willing to help those who need it but discovers he often needs help from others.

Jack is an orphan and doesn’t remember anything about his parents. The “aunt” he’s living with doesn’t seem to be a loving relative so her relationship to Jack is unclear. These questions force readers to speculate about Jack’s true story so the idea that he might be a lost son from nobility is very possible. He eventually realizes he may be able to learn answers about his past if he can somehow sneak into the Tower. However, there are people in the Tower searching for Jack and he doesn’t understand why. He must weigh the danger from the threats seeking him out with his desire to understand his past.

The story is set in the 1400s and the author includes numerous details from that time period. Old Mother Cobb creates remedies from herbs but Jack knows they probably don’t do much to cure any ailments. He studies the latest medical treatments using his books which include blood-letting with leeches to heal diseases. Clothing is handmade from wool and Jack mostly moves by foot around the city. King Richard III is ruling England but his claim to the throne may be illegitimate. This leads to the Cousins War, or the War of the Roses, which is a major part of the book. An epilogue and the author’s note at the end will answer any lingering questions and provide historical context to the story.

What didn’t work as well:

Clues are left regarding what’s happening in the plot but astute readers will probably be able to easily figure everything out. The synopsis lets readers know Jack will be misidentified and chased by unknown assailants but the mystery isn’t hard to foresee. The author’s twist adds some intrigue to Jack’s character but readers will have an inkling about that too.

The final verdict:

Jack’s kind, humble character is at the center of a historical adventure. There’s enough danger and drama to satisfy everyone with mystery and a suspenseful climax to wrap things up. I recommend you give this book a shot. 

The Sherlock Society 1 by James Ponti

What worked:

The author presents a dramatic hook as readers meet the two main characters adrift in the water off the coast of Florida. Siblings Alex and Zoe Sherlock had just survived a boat explosion after sneaking on and hiding from the owner and his crew. The setting then shifts back three weeks to explain how the kids get themselves, and their grandfather, into this predicament. This adventure reveals secrets they never expected, putting them in potentially dangerous situations. The book’s title comes from Alex’s admiration for Sherlock Holmes and his mysteries not from the fact they share the same last name.

The story is told from Alex’s first-person point of view although it doesn’t add significant information or insight. The book reads as a mystery when Zoe joins Alex and his two friends, Lina and Yadi, to form a summertime detective agency. Their mother nixes that plan but Grandpa suggests they try to finish one of the unsolved stories from his reporter days. The article they choose to pursue happens to be about Al Capone and a million-dollar hidden treasure he may have buried around Miami. Grandpa says being a reporter is like being a detective so that’s how they’ll spin it when the mother finds out. They often fall back on the 5 Ws of newspeople (who, what, why, when, where) to guide their investigation.

The plot includes news from the past as the Sherlock Society researches Al Capone’s life and historical events during that time. Capone is best known for living in Chicago but he moved to Miami after being released from Alcatraz prison. Grandpa shares what he knows as a lifelong resident of the area and they visit sites from Capone’s life and interview people who have knowledge about him. As the plot shifts, readers learn additional information regarding nature and science when a new antagonist arises. This new conflict allows the characters to use their detective skills to resolve an important public problem.

What didn’t work as well:

The whole plot is about solving mysteries and readers may want a break at times. There are a couple of subplots concerning Lina and Zoe but it might be nice to develop them more.  

The final verdict:

The book begins as an interesting exploration of Al Capone’s past then transitions to an important investigation about a local, public figure. The characters don’t have super-sleuthing talents but they work well together as a team. Overall, I recommend you give it a shot. 

Confessions of a Junior Spy 1 by Rosaria Munda

What worked:

The Pangean Hotel is a curious setting where spies freely roam the hallways and rooms after their worldwide missions. It’s a sanctuary for them and houses the Pangean League, an ancient international association dedicated to maintaining world peace. Its spies are committed to helping people in trouble and they never use violence except in self-defense. The fraternal twins of the hotel’s Branch Director are snobby brats and they provide an annoyance for Bea, the book’s main character. Staff members provide all of the necessary services for spies ranging from clothing and equipment to medical services. Bea’s teachers range from the Interpreter for lessons in Latin and French, to learning chemistry from the Jeweler, and history and espionage from the Archivist.

While this book doesn’t tell a superhero story, it does include Bea’s new super ability. These talents are called Knacks and Bea eventually learns hers has to do with knives. Her best friend Tommy has a Knack for cleaning while her new friend Chantal has a Knack for communicating with animals. Bea’s Knack manifests itself when she needs to protect a friend and she’s overjoyed when she discovers it. If you ignore the fact that she could have seriously injured a bully. The residents and staff of the Pangean respond with praise and congratulations. Bea feels a comforting connection with the weapons and the Jeweler gifts her with a special knife bearing an inlaid, scrimshaw hilt, and tiny teeth. Bea’s mother, however, would prefer Bea use her new Knack to become a skilled surgeon or a chef, like her father.

The biggest conflict is between Bea and her mother and it concerns Bea attending a normal school. Bea doesn’t have any first-hand experience beyond the walls of the Pangean Hotel but she doesn’t want to spend her days sitting behind a schoolroom desk. Classes that don’t include self-defense or stitching up wounds don’t interest her at all. However, Bea’s mom doesn’t want her daughter to enter the dangerous world of spies like she was forced to do as a child. Her mother isn’t sharing all she knows about the spy business but she’s afraid of the dangers Bea’s new Knack might bring.

What didn’t work as well:

Chantal’s knack doesn’t work as well for a couple of reasons. First, she’s supposed to be a “normal” young girl so it doesn’t seem like she should have a special ability. Second, her knack is more supernatural than other knacks. Bea can’t do anything magical with knives other than throw them with great accuracy. The spies’ talents are based on exceptional skills and interests while Chantal's communication with animals goes beyond human capabilities.

The final verdict:

This book is certainly an appetizer for greater adventures to come. Bea’s struggle to pursue a life of spying is at center stage but the appearance of an assassin brings much excitement and suspense. I recommend you give this book a shot and I’m looking forward to its sequel.