A Skeleton in the Closet (The Mizzy Mysteries 1) by Claire Hatcher-Smith

What worked:

Mizzy views herself as a detective, even though she often comes to the wrong conclusions. Initially, the plot takes on a little-boy-who-cried-wolf vibe, as other family members know how she tends to exaggerate. However, Mizzy notices things that others might miss, and she’s very curious. She’s constantly looking for mysteries to solve, which means she’s ready for clues hidden in a locked wardrobe. Readers know Mizzy has Down syndrome, but they may forget that fact as the story unfolds. Down syndrome causes her poor spelling, but she still follows the process of identifying suspects, collecting clues, and considering suspects’ motives. The story is told from Mizzy’s point of view, so readers understand that she feels underappreciated and wants to prove herself to her family.

Great Aunt Jane’s death might, or might not, be an actual mystery, as everyone seems to agree she died in her sleep. Her diary says she had important news to reveal at a family gathering, but she never got the chance. The last diary entry, torn from the book, says she might have been poisoned, but there’s still a possibility Mizzy is jumping to conclusions, again. Clues are hard to find since Great Aunt Jane passed away in 1973. The only suspects are family members, but why would any of them want to commit murder?

What didn’t work as well:

The mystery is restricted due to the age of the case, the few suspects, and the limited motives. Mizzy doesn’t have any special detective training, and she makes investigative mistakes along the way. Her persistence and determination are key character traits, but readers may think she lucks into solving the mystery.

The final verdict:

There aren’t many books featuring characters with Down syndrome, and Mizzy highlights her independence and capabilities. The last fourth of the story is full of developments, as new information is revealed. The story may be more about family relationships than mystery, but I suggest you try it out for yourself.