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Recommend this book:
The Secret Cookie Caper
Eudora Space Kid Book 4
David Horn
2026 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
The Secret Cookie Caper by David Horn follows Eudora, a girl living aboard the AstroLiner Athena, where school days end in a cafeteria and ship announcements carry as much weight as homework. When the chief chef decides to base a full week of meals on mangoes shipped from Mars, Eudora takes matters into her own hands and hides the fruit using an invention she built herself. A routine defense alert turns her secret into a shipwide incident, placing her in the brig and under the scrutiny of senior officers. There, she hears a rumor about a hidden room said to exist beyond the reach of sensors. After her release, Eudora begins a quiet search through forgotten corridors and restricted decks, drawing the attention of crew members who have their own reasons for watching her actions.
David Horn’s The Secret Cookie Caper: Eudora Space Kid Book 4 is a smart, funny science-fiction mystery that keeps its feet on the ground even while set aboard a starship. Eudora, a third grader, is capable, impatient, and convinced she can fix problems on her own, a belief that quickly lands her in trouble when her plan to interfere with a food shipment backfires. Horn handles the fallout with unusual steadiness. Adults act responsibly, the consequences are enforced, and Eudora is expected to understand the impact of her choices. The later mystery of a hidden cookie room grows out of rumor and curiosity, which my youngest reader found loads of fun. The writing is simple and straightforward, perfect for all ages, and entertaining enough for both kids and their parents. Very highly recommended.
The Secret Cookie Caper by David Horn follows Eudora, a girl living aboard the AstroLiner Athena, where school days end in a cafeteria and ship announcements carry as much weight as homework. When the chief chef decides to base a full week of meals on mangoes shipped from Mars, Eudora takes matters into her own hands and hides the fruit using an invention she built herself. A routine defense alert turns her secret into a shipwide incident, placing her in the brig and under the scrutiny of senior officers. There, she hears a rumor about a hidden room said to exist beyond the reach of sensors. After her release, Eudora begins a quiet search through forgotten corridors and restricted decks, drawing the attention of crew members who have their own reasons for watching her actions.
David Horn’s The Secret Cookie Caper: Eudora Space Kid Book 4 is a smart, funny science-fiction mystery that keeps its feet on the ground even while set aboard a starship. Eudora, a third grader, is capable, impatient, and convinced she can fix problems on her own, a belief that quickly lands her in trouble when her plan to interfere with a food shipment backfires. Horn handles the fallout with unusual steadiness. Adults act responsibly, the consequences are enforced, and Eudora is expected to understand the impact of her choices. The later mystery of a hidden cookie room grows out of rumor and curiosity, which my youngest reader found loads of fun. The writing is simple and straightforward, perfect for all ages, and entertaining enough for both kids and their parents. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Cemetery Ridge
Barbara Eckholdt Johnstone
2026 Honorable Mention
294 Pages
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by Erick Ramos for Readers' Favorite
Cemetery Ridge by Barbara Eckholdt Johnstone follows Brooke, a young girl sent by her mother to live with a woman named Helena. This arrangement was meant to be temporary, as her mother was undergoing cancer treatment, but for over a year, Brooke had not heard from her mother or older brother. Now, Brooke is stuck living with Helena and a man named Tucker in an old trailer, always hiding and on the move, until they arrive in Cemetery Ridge, Ohio. We meet Lacey, a twelve-year-old girl who moves from Pittsburgh with her twin brother, Logan, and their parents. Things start to get interesting when Lacey and her friend have an encounter with Brooke in a resale store. Lacey is curious about Brooke and buys the puzzle box she has left behind. These friends have a mystery to unravel. Will Lacey be able to decipher the clues? And will Brooke ever manage to escape and reunite with her family?
Cemetery Ridge by Barbara Eckholdt Johnstone got my attention with the character development and setting. The suspense gradually built, drawing me deeper into the story. The characters have diverse roles, and I believe that the manipulative Tucker was perfectly depicted by the author. I enjoyed that the book leans toward psychological and emotional tension, especially in the chapters about Brooke. Lacey was a lively character and added humor and insight to the story, and I loved reading about her role in the story. Brooke is very courageous and smart for her age to carefully leave clues in the hope that someone would find them and help her escape. The themes covered are curiosity, courage, mystery, friendship, and more. I recommend this book to middle-grade and young adult readers because they will relate to and enjoy it.
Cemetery Ridge by Barbara Eckholdt Johnstone follows Brooke, a young girl sent by her mother to live with a woman named Helena. This arrangement was meant to be temporary, as her mother was undergoing cancer treatment, but for over a year, Brooke had not heard from her mother or older brother. Now, Brooke is stuck living with Helena and a man named Tucker in an old trailer, always hiding and on the move, until they arrive in Cemetery Ridge, Ohio. We meet Lacey, a twelve-year-old girl who moves from Pittsburgh with her twin brother, Logan, and their parents. Things start to get interesting when Lacey and her friend have an encounter with Brooke in a resale store. Lacey is curious about Brooke and buys the puzzle box she has left behind. These friends have a mystery to unravel. Will Lacey be able to decipher the clues? And will Brooke ever manage to escape and reunite with her family?
Cemetery Ridge by Barbara Eckholdt Johnstone got my attention with the character development and setting. The suspense gradually built, drawing me deeper into the story. The characters have diverse roles, and I believe that the manipulative Tucker was perfectly depicted by the author. I enjoyed that the book leans toward psychological and emotional tension, especially in the chapters about Brooke. Lacey was a lively character and added humor and insight to the story, and I loved reading about her role in the story. Brooke is very courageous and smart for her age to carefully leave clues in the hope that someone would find them and help her escape. The themes covered are curiosity, courage, mystery, friendship, and more. I recommend this book to middle-grade and young adult readers because they will relate to and enjoy it.
Recommend this book:
Macadamia Street
Hidden Skeleton (The Botanic Hill Detectives Mysteries, Book 7)
Sherrill Joseph
2026 Bronze Medal
307 Pages
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by S. Mathur for Readers' Favorite
The Botanic Hill Detectives return in their seventh adventure, and this time, it’s all about pirates. Macadamia Street: Hidden Skeleton by Sherrill Joseph is set in the historic town of Penzance in Cornwall, which is still full of secrets and smugglers’ lore. Teenagers Moki, Rani, and twins Lanny and Lexi are invited by the new owners of Crow’s Nest Grange to investigate fragments of what looks like a pirate logbook from 1723, found during renovations at the manor house. They make a gruesome discovery in the cellar, but that only adds to the mystery. What is the connection between pirates and the aristocratic family that used to own the house? Why are valuable treasures disappearing from the house, and why is someone eavesdropping on the detectives?
The exciting adventures and discoveries in Macadamia Street: Hidden Skeleton unfold against a perfect backdrop with the Cornish manor house and the seaside town of Penzance. Sherrill Joseph has done her research carefully, and the details of the location and its history, police and detective procedure, forensic anthropology (with one amendment), and genetics make the story even more compelling. The book is full of references to famous pirates and to literary works by Stevenson and du Maurier, serving as an introduction to the region's history without feeling like a school lesson. Wonderful characters like Captain, the former police dog, and Salty Joe, who knows everything about pirates, and a fast-moving plot will keep you riveted. Teens will love this book, as will anyone who enjoys all things piratical. Highly recommended.
The Botanic Hill Detectives return in their seventh adventure, and this time, it’s all about pirates. Macadamia Street: Hidden Skeleton by Sherrill Joseph is set in the historic town of Penzance in Cornwall, which is still full of secrets and smugglers’ lore. Teenagers Moki, Rani, and twins Lanny and Lexi are invited by the new owners of Crow’s Nest Grange to investigate fragments of what looks like a pirate logbook from 1723, found during renovations at the manor house. They make a gruesome discovery in the cellar, but that only adds to the mystery. What is the connection between pirates and the aristocratic family that used to own the house? Why are valuable treasures disappearing from the house, and why is someone eavesdropping on the detectives?
The exciting adventures and discoveries in Macadamia Street: Hidden Skeleton unfold against a perfect backdrop with the Cornish manor house and the seaside town of Penzance. Sherrill Joseph has done her research carefully, and the details of the location and its history, police and detective procedure, forensic anthropology (with one amendment), and genetics make the story even more compelling. The book is full of references to famous pirates and to literary works by Stevenson and du Maurier, serving as an introduction to the region's history without feeling like a school lesson. Wonderful characters like Captain, the former police dog, and Salty Joe, who knows everything about pirates, and a fast-moving plot will keep you riveted. Teens will love this book, as will anyone who enjoys all things piratical. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Stikki the Squirrel
Tree Spirits
Jane H. Wood
2026 Silver Medal
240 Pages
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits is a children's book by Jane H. Wood. It's been a harsh winter for Stikki the Squirrel and his family. In fact, all the animals in the woodland have been affected by the cold and snow. Stikki leaves his mate Rella and their four kits to retrieve his hidden stash of food, only to run into a couple of predatory foxes. Rella follows Stikki's trail and finds him, but the foxes haven't given up yet. After falling into the river, Stikki and Rella are unexpectedly rescued by two "longlegs". Meanwhile, the kits are searching for their parents, led by the eldest, Fluffer. Can Fluffer and his siblings get to their parents before the foxes? And how long will the winter last?
Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits is a cozy adventure for young readers. Children will learn about the importance of family, friendship, and teamwork from this captivating tale with animals as main characters. They will also be thoroughly entertained. I know I was even as an older reader. The plot is absorbing and the characters immensely likable. Jane H. Wood paces the narrative in a way that gives time for readers to get to know the characters in-depth and immerse themselves in the setting of the woodland. There are so many interesting characters, including Stikki, Rella, their kits, Sophie and her family, Craw, Brodboar, and many more. Their distinct personality traits let each of them leave their mark on the reader. I also liked the ending. It's optimistic and full of hope. Children are going to love this book.
Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits is a children's book by Jane H. Wood. It's been a harsh winter for Stikki the Squirrel and his family. In fact, all the animals in the woodland have been affected by the cold and snow. Stikki leaves his mate Rella and their four kits to retrieve his hidden stash of food, only to run into a couple of predatory foxes. Rella follows Stikki's trail and finds him, but the foxes haven't given up yet. After falling into the river, Stikki and Rella are unexpectedly rescued by two "longlegs". Meanwhile, the kits are searching for their parents, led by the eldest, Fluffer. Can Fluffer and his siblings get to their parents before the foxes? And how long will the winter last?
Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits is a cozy adventure for young readers. Children will learn about the importance of family, friendship, and teamwork from this captivating tale with animals as main characters. They will also be thoroughly entertained. I know I was even as an older reader. The plot is absorbing and the characters immensely likable. Jane H. Wood paces the narrative in a way that gives time for readers to get to know the characters in-depth and immerse themselves in the setting of the woodland. There are so many interesting characters, including Stikki, Rella, their kits, Sophie and her family, Craw, Brodboar, and many more. Their distinct personality traits let each of them leave their mark on the reader. I also liked the ending. It's optimistic and full of hope. Children are going to love this book.
Recommend this book:
Jibberjack, Fibberjack
A Made-Up Monster Mystery
Stefanie Gamarra, Marta Pilosio
2026 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
In Stefanie Gamarra's Jibberjack, Fibberjack: A Made-Up Monster Mystery, the small town of Rumorridge is in a panic over reports of a mysterious creature called the Jibberjack. Frida, a sharp-eyed young detective who refuses to believe what she’s told without proof, starts gathering clues while adults spiral into fear and confusion. As livestock vanishes, the mayor seizes the chance to control the situation with new rules, public speeches, and monster traps he suspiciously already had in stock. Frida notices odd details—familiar smells, muddy footprints, and timing that doesn’t add up—and starts to suspect the real monster might not have claws or fur at all. To uncover the truth, she sets a clever trap of her own—not for the Jibberjack everyone fears, but for the Fibberjack she believes is behind it.
Jibberjack, Fibberjack: A Made-Up Monster Mystery, written by Stefanie Gamarra and illustrated by Marta Pilosio, is a witty and inventive story that turns small-town gossip into a brilliant investigation. Young Frida’s sharp mind and refusal to be dismissed by adults make her a standout hero, especially as she pieces together clues about a so-called monster that seems to frighten everyone but her. The dialogue is age-appropriate with wit that elevates the story, and good twists right down to the moment when the real culprit is caught. The illustrations are in a bold cartoon style that breathes life into each scene, and on every page. Frida’s confidence and cleverness make this book a genuine delight to read and one that will stay with readers of any age. Very highly recommended.
In Stefanie Gamarra's Jibberjack, Fibberjack: A Made-Up Monster Mystery, the small town of Rumorridge is in a panic over reports of a mysterious creature called the Jibberjack. Frida, a sharp-eyed young detective who refuses to believe what she’s told without proof, starts gathering clues while adults spiral into fear and confusion. As livestock vanishes, the mayor seizes the chance to control the situation with new rules, public speeches, and monster traps he suspiciously already had in stock. Frida notices odd details—familiar smells, muddy footprints, and timing that doesn’t add up—and starts to suspect the real monster might not have claws or fur at all. To uncover the truth, she sets a clever trap of her own—not for the Jibberjack everyone fears, but for the Fibberjack she believes is behind it.
Jibberjack, Fibberjack: A Made-Up Monster Mystery, written by Stefanie Gamarra and illustrated by Marta Pilosio, is a witty and inventive story that turns small-town gossip into a brilliant investigation. Young Frida’s sharp mind and refusal to be dismissed by adults make her a standout hero, especially as she pieces together clues about a so-called monster that seems to frighten everyone but her. The dialogue is age-appropriate with wit that elevates the story, and good twists right down to the moment when the real culprit is caught. The illustrations are in a bold cartoon style that breathes life into each scene, and on every page. Frida’s confidence and cleverness make this book a genuine delight to read and one that will stay with readers of any age. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Tempest's Secret
Brave Kids Never Give Up
Ariane Chapelle
2025 Finalist
156 Pages
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite
Tempest's Secret: Brave Kids Never Give Up by Ariane Chapelle is a wonderful children's book about a brave girl and a kitten. Tempest is an eleven-year-old girl who tries to convince her mother to get a pet. She and her little brother would love a small friend to play with, especially a cat. Their mother says they will not have time to take care of it properly, yet Tempest believes she would be great at caring for one. One day, she and her brother find a kitten stuck in a tree in the park. They save it and decide to take it home. Now, they must find a way to keep the kitten a secret for a few days to prove to their parents that they can take good care of a pet without causing trouble, hoping they will let them keep it. Soon, Tempest will learn what a responsibility it is to have a pet.
Tempest's Secret by Ariane Chapelle is an extraordinary tale that contains the perfect dose of excitement, adventure, mystery, suspense, heart, beautiful illustrations, and life lessons. It shows that brave kids never give up, that coming forward and asking for help is the best way to solve real problems, and that you are stronger if you can count on allies. This delightful detective story is for young pet lovers and those who feel they are better at making animal friends than humans. It is engaging, encouraging children not to let small failures discourage them and to have confidence in their abilities. This book is the perfect choice for anyone looking for mystery books for kids.
Tempest's Secret: Brave Kids Never Give Up by Ariane Chapelle is a wonderful children's book about a brave girl and a kitten. Tempest is an eleven-year-old girl who tries to convince her mother to get a pet. She and her little brother would love a small friend to play with, especially a cat. Their mother says they will not have time to take care of it properly, yet Tempest believes she would be great at caring for one. One day, she and her brother find a kitten stuck in a tree in the park. They save it and decide to take it home. Now, they must find a way to keep the kitten a secret for a few days to prove to their parents that they can take good care of a pet without causing trouble, hoping they will let them keep it. Soon, Tempest will learn what a responsibility it is to have a pet.
Tempest's Secret by Ariane Chapelle is an extraordinary tale that contains the perfect dose of excitement, adventure, mystery, suspense, heart, beautiful illustrations, and life lessons. It shows that brave kids never give up, that coming forward and asking for help is the best way to solve real problems, and that you are stronger if you can count on allies. This delightful detective story is for young pet lovers and those who feel they are better at making animal friends than humans. It is engaging, encouraging children not to let small failures discourage them and to have confidence in their abilities. This book is the perfect choice for anyone looking for mystery books for kids.
Recommend this book:
The Legend of the Serpent Witch
Scary Shivers Mysteries
F.P. LaRue
2025 Honorable Mention
184 Pages
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
The Legend of the Serpent Witch by F.P. LaRue begins with Ollie, a twelve-year-old boy who begins noticing strange items and marks in the woods near his school, which could be linked to recent child disappearances. Along with his friends, Mellie and Scotty, he investigates and discovers a connection to a witch named Hagatha, who has been luring children to their deaths. As they dig deeper, they meet a boy named Adrian who was trapped for years by Hagatha and reveals that she uses children’s innocence to maintain her youth. The group learns of her ongoing attempts to trap more children, but the worst comes when Scotty disappears, leading to an epic confrontation to free Scotty and prevent more children from falling into her trap.
The Legend of the Serpent Witch by F.P. LaRue is a great mix of mystery, adventure, and supernatural suspense in a middle-grade reading package. The 'malevolent witch in the woods' angle isn't new, but LaRue makes it feel fresh with writing that is textured and atmospheric, perfectly introducing the chills factor as the pages turn. The pacing is tight, keeping readers on edge as the group confronts increasingly eerie phenomena. LaRue gives us ominous smoke, unusual symbols, and the kid-lit pièce de résistance: creepies, crawlies, and snakes! My youngest reader and I both thought having Ollie's point of view in the first person was brilliant, and his curiosity and courage are drivers for all that transpires. With its easy mix of folklore, magic, and suspense, this addition to the Scary Shivers Mysteries series is a win. Very highly recommended.
The Legend of the Serpent Witch by F.P. LaRue begins with Ollie, a twelve-year-old boy who begins noticing strange items and marks in the woods near his school, which could be linked to recent child disappearances. Along with his friends, Mellie and Scotty, he investigates and discovers a connection to a witch named Hagatha, who has been luring children to their deaths. As they dig deeper, they meet a boy named Adrian who was trapped for years by Hagatha and reveals that she uses children’s innocence to maintain her youth. The group learns of her ongoing attempts to trap more children, but the worst comes when Scotty disappears, leading to an epic confrontation to free Scotty and prevent more children from falling into her trap.
The Legend of the Serpent Witch by F.P. LaRue is a great mix of mystery, adventure, and supernatural suspense in a middle-grade reading package. The 'malevolent witch in the woods' angle isn't new, but LaRue makes it feel fresh with writing that is textured and atmospheric, perfectly introducing the chills factor as the pages turn. The pacing is tight, keeping readers on edge as the group confronts increasingly eerie phenomena. LaRue gives us ominous smoke, unusual symbols, and the kid-lit pièce de résistance: creepies, crawlies, and snakes! My youngest reader and I both thought having Ollie's point of view in the first person was brilliant, and his curiosity and courage are drivers for all that transpires. With its easy mix of folklore, magic, and suspense, this addition to the Scary Shivers Mysteries series is a win. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Liv Forever: Never Say Zombie
Diana Davis
2025 Bronze Medal
198 Pages
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Liv Forever: Never Say Zombie by Diana Davis is a humorous kids' mystery story. Liv Creep is dead and it’s no fun at all. Her diet stinks, bits of her keep falling off, and she’s so tired of keeping quiet about her “condition” – her best friend Di is the only one who knows. Liv has an even worse problem; she’s got a serious crush on Ryan but he’s never going to fall for a dead girl. When the school bully, Kaitlyn, threatens to tell all her social media followers – she’s an influencer, by the way – about Liv’s crush, she needs to do something. Down into the depths of the dead city she and Di go in a bid to stop Kaitlyn. Will they succeed? And just how dangerous is it down there, not just for a dead girl but her human best friend?
Liv Forever: Never Say Zombie by Diana Davis is a hilarious mixture of thriller, horror, and kid-friendly mystery. This book is so well-written, filled with funny one-liners and a fantastically unique plot. It’s action all the way, and from the minute you start reading, you’re hooked on this very cleverly written and imaginative yarn. It’s a twisty story that leads you down some pretty dark alleyways filled with zombies, and the characters are superb – relatable and likable, dead or otherwise. However, aside from being a humorous story, this is also about friendship and unconditional support, demonstrating the lengths good friends and family will go to for someone in need. This book may be aimed at middle-school readers, but, as an adult reader, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It doesn’t matter your age; we all need a bit of light humor in our lives, and this is the perfect book to help you put life in perspective. After all, no matter how bad things seem, they could be worse – you could be a dead girl at school! I really hope there’s a sequel in the offing.
Liv Forever: Never Say Zombie by Diana Davis is a humorous kids' mystery story. Liv Creep is dead and it’s no fun at all. Her diet stinks, bits of her keep falling off, and she’s so tired of keeping quiet about her “condition” – her best friend Di is the only one who knows. Liv has an even worse problem; she’s got a serious crush on Ryan but he’s never going to fall for a dead girl. When the school bully, Kaitlyn, threatens to tell all her social media followers – she’s an influencer, by the way – about Liv’s crush, she needs to do something. Down into the depths of the dead city she and Di go in a bid to stop Kaitlyn. Will they succeed? And just how dangerous is it down there, not just for a dead girl but her human best friend?
Liv Forever: Never Say Zombie by Diana Davis is a hilarious mixture of thriller, horror, and kid-friendly mystery. This book is so well-written, filled with funny one-liners and a fantastically unique plot. It’s action all the way, and from the minute you start reading, you’re hooked on this very cleverly written and imaginative yarn. It’s a twisty story that leads you down some pretty dark alleyways filled with zombies, and the characters are superb – relatable and likable, dead or otherwise. However, aside from being a humorous story, this is also about friendship and unconditional support, demonstrating the lengths good friends and family will go to for someone in need. This book may be aimed at middle-school readers, but, as an adult reader, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It doesn’t matter your age; we all need a bit of light humor in our lives, and this is the perfect book to help you put life in perspective. After all, no matter how bad things seem, they could be worse – you could be a dead girl at school! I really hope there’s a sequel in the offing.
Recommend this book:
Monkey Flip
A Sebastian Winthrop, Chimp Detective, Mystery
Michael Dell
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Have you ever met a talking chimp? Sebastian Winthrop is not only a talking chimp, he’s also a first-rate detective. Just don’t call him a monkey as he’s really a chimp. Friendly, too, and it’s a good thing because in Michael Dell’s Monkey Flip, Addie and Bennett have just learned that their father, the fearsome wrestler, Bonecrusher, has been charged with murdering one of his fellow wrestlers, and they need professional help – fast. Sebastian is thorough in his investigation, and he teaches the young siblings some tips on how to develop good detective skills. Sebastian has some aspirations of his own: “The only real growth comes from change. My life needs changing. … I must continue to grow, change, and evolve. I wish to be part of something bigger than myself.”
Michael Dell’s middle-grade novel, Monkey Flip: A Sebastian Winthrop, Chimp Detective, Mystery, is a fun-packed story that will have young readers craving more. The plot follows Sebastian and the two young people who hire him, as he uncovers the mystery surrounding the murder for which Bonecrusher is accused. The narrative is effective and thorough, and even readers with little knowledge of wrestling can follow along easily. Dialogue is believable and used to add another dimension to the plot as well as develop the characters. Readers will enjoy the story's humor as well as the themes of family, grief, acceptance, and teamwork. Even the reluctant reader would find this story difficult to put down. A great read.
Have you ever met a talking chimp? Sebastian Winthrop is not only a talking chimp, he’s also a first-rate detective. Just don’t call him a monkey as he’s really a chimp. Friendly, too, and it’s a good thing because in Michael Dell’s Monkey Flip, Addie and Bennett have just learned that their father, the fearsome wrestler, Bonecrusher, has been charged with murdering one of his fellow wrestlers, and they need professional help – fast. Sebastian is thorough in his investigation, and he teaches the young siblings some tips on how to develop good detective skills. Sebastian has some aspirations of his own: “The only real growth comes from change. My life needs changing. … I must continue to grow, change, and evolve. I wish to be part of something bigger than myself.”
Michael Dell’s middle-grade novel, Monkey Flip: A Sebastian Winthrop, Chimp Detective, Mystery, is a fun-packed story that will have young readers craving more. The plot follows Sebastian and the two young people who hire him, as he uncovers the mystery surrounding the murder for which Bonecrusher is accused. The narrative is effective and thorough, and even readers with little knowledge of wrestling can follow along easily. Dialogue is believable and used to add another dimension to the plot as well as develop the characters. Readers will enjoy the story's humor as well as the themes of family, grief, acceptance, and teamwork. Even the reluctant reader would find this story difficult to put down. A great read.
Recommend this book:
Snoopers & Sneakers
Cristina Rouvalis, Lydia Wayman
2025 Gold Medal
242 Pages
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by P. Rosenthal for Readers' Favorite
Grab your magnifying glass… In Snoopers and Sneakers, by Cristina Rouvalis and Lydia Wayman, Jane and Ashley seem dissimilar on the surface. Jane is autistic. She is a quiet genius with a love for cats, while Ashley is an irrepressible member of a group of popular girls at school. However, they both agree that Miss DiMicco is the best teacher in the world. When Miss DiMicco is arrested, the two girls join forces to clear their teacher’s name, leading to an unexpected friendship. As they navigate the ups and downs of sixth grade—including dealing with bullies, choosing the right shoes, and managing an annoying substitute teacher—Jane and Ashley discover that they fit together like two pieces of the same puzzle. But can they save their teacher and strengthen their friendship?
Make way for a new generation of amateur detectives! Snoopers and Sneakers, by Cristina Rouvalis and Lydia Wayman, introduces readers to Ashley and Jane. With Ashley’s charisma and bold resolve and Jane's intelligence and attention to detail, Rouvalis and Wayman create characters with the necessary qualities to be the next iconic super sleuths. The thoughtful glimpse into life with autism fosters empathy and understanding of individuals with neurological differences. The girls' struggles with fake friendships make their challenges highly relatable, and believable storytelling allows readers to become immersed in the story. Engaging clues, multiple likely suspects, and a sense of urgency make it a fast-paced page-turner. If you enjoyed Wonder by R.J. Palacio, you’ll love this heartwarming story about unlikely friendships and standing up for what is right.
Grab your magnifying glass… In Snoopers and Sneakers, by Cristina Rouvalis and Lydia Wayman, Jane and Ashley seem dissimilar on the surface. Jane is autistic. She is a quiet genius with a love for cats, while Ashley is an irrepressible member of a group of popular girls at school. However, they both agree that Miss DiMicco is the best teacher in the world. When Miss DiMicco is arrested, the two girls join forces to clear their teacher’s name, leading to an unexpected friendship. As they navigate the ups and downs of sixth grade—including dealing with bullies, choosing the right shoes, and managing an annoying substitute teacher—Jane and Ashley discover that they fit together like two pieces of the same puzzle. But can they save their teacher and strengthen their friendship?
Make way for a new generation of amateur detectives! Snoopers and Sneakers, by Cristina Rouvalis and Lydia Wayman, introduces readers to Ashley and Jane. With Ashley’s charisma and bold resolve and Jane's intelligence and attention to detail, Rouvalis and Wayman create characters with the necessary qualities to be the next iconic super sleuths. The thoughtful glimpse into life with autism fosters empathy and understanding of individuals with neurological differences. The girls' struggles with fake friendships make their challenges highly relatable, and believable storytelling allows readers to become immersed in the story. Engaging clues, multiple likely suspects, and a sense of urgency make it a fast-paced page-turner. If you enjoyed Wonder by R.J. Palacio, you’ll love this heartwarming story about unlikely friendships and standing up for what is right.
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