So Mysterious

I understand that you don't always have time to sit and read a thorough review , so I like to offer quick little reviews from time to time. 

"Vanishing Acts: A Maggie Brooklyn Mystery"

By Leslie Margolis

For Ages 8 - 12

A mysterious dog egger, a missing teen heartthrob, some quirky characters and little teen romance fill out this Maggie Brooklyn mystery. Rated 3 (mystery, romance, father/son relationship) 

The pacing is steady but the action is not what really keeps this story moving. It’s all about the relationships. Whether its Maggie’s budding romance or the relationship between a teen movie star and his father, the characters and dialogue are well-developed and honest.

What’s good: Great character development.

What’s bad: A glut of adolescent teen mysteries on the market.

"Sleuth or Dare: Partners in Crime"

By Kim Harrington

For Ages 8 - 12

If the "Nancy Drew Mysteries" were combined with "The Babysitter's Club" you would end up with something like "Sleuth or Dare." 

Rated 3 (mystery, school, mild scares)

Best friends Darcy and Norah create a fictional detective agency for a class project and things are great until a real client hires them for a missing person case. What do they do when a threat is left in a school locker? Can they stick with the case until they solve it? The mystery is fun and dangerous.

What’s good: Good character development and strong friendships.

What’s bad: The mystery is a little easy to solve

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