Well, I thought I would start off the new year with some fun mystery books. Nothing like a puzzle to get the brain going. There have been some great mystery books published this last year, especially with the new offering from Lemony Snicket, so perhaps we may start to see a trend towards this genre.
I personally think mysteries offer kids a chance to hone their ability to predict where the action is going in a story, as well as to keep them focused on some of the smaller details in the narrative.
Whether they solve the mystery or not, that is a win. So get out your magnifying glass and your thinking cap, because this week's offerings will test your ability to solve a puzzle, and in the case of our first book, the puzzles are everywhere!
Title: The Puzzler’s Mansion
Author: Eric Berlin
Target: Grades 4 - 7
Series: Yes
What this book is about:
Winston Breen is addicted to puzzles. When he is invited to a puzzle party at the home of a famous musician, he manages to secure invites for his two best friends. As they work through a series of clever puzzles, they find another mystery is afoot. The prizes are going missing. Who could be taking these valuable possessions, and does this mean they must solve another puzzle, that of the missing prizes?
Why I love this book:
This book is the third in the series, but they do not have to be read in order to be enjoyed. Brainteasers are scattered liberally throughout the story, and they made this puzzle solving mom jump for joy. The puzzles were not run of the mill, and kids will be challenged to get the answers. While the writing is not earth-shattering, the cleverness of the games are wonderful along with nice lessons on good sportsmanship.
Who this book is for:
Any kid who likes brain teasers will just eat this book up. The puzzles are tough so I would not recommend this book for younger kids. There are even supplemental puzzles in the back for kids who want to continue to be challenged.
Final thoughts:
I hated myself when I wimped out and looked in the back for the puzzle answers, only to find it so obvious once I knew!
To see my full selection of mystery books for kids, visit my website at www.onegreatbook.com.
