local_shipping Free Standard U.S. Shipping on all orders $25 or more
Ghosts, a kidnapping, a crew of young detectives, and family secrets mix in this new standalone mystery set in the world of the best-selling Greenglass House, from a National Book Award nominee and Edgar Award-winning author.
Marzana and her best friend are bored. Even though they live in a notorious city where normal rules do not apply, nothing interesting ever happens to them. Nothing, that is, until Marzana's parents are recruited to help solve an odd crime, and she realizes that this could be the excitement she's been waiting for. She assembles a group of kid detectives with special skills--including the ghost of a ship captain's daughter--and together, they explore hidden passageways, navigate architecture that changes overnight, and try to unravel the puzzle of who the kidnappers are--and where they're hiding. But will they beat the deadline for a ransom that's impossible to pay?
Legendary smugglers, suspicious teachers, and some scary bad guys are just a few of the adults the crew must circumvent while discovering hidden truths about their families and themselves in this smart, richly imagined tale.
The Republic of Gammerbund is a sanctuary for even the most legendary thieves and smugglers to hide and lead (mostly) normal lives. When a kidnapping threatens Gammerbund, 12-year-old Marzana's parents are recruited to help, and the lure of adventure is too much for the shy aspiring spy. She puts together a team of peers to investigate, each member bringing a talent more unusual than the last. But the case may be even stranger than anyone suspects. This novel takes readers back into the world Milford created in Greenglass House, adding richly detailed layers to a well-developed setting. While kids need not have read the other installments, those familiar with the series will appreciate the references to previous books. This is a perfectly plotted and well-told mystery, and the fascinating settings and characters make it unique. Children will find the plot's twists thrilling and immersive, thanks to Milford's world-building talent. VERDICT Readers will delight in this old-fashioned mystery, made fresh with intriguing places and people.—Kristin Brynsvold, Tuckahoe Elementary School, Arlington, VA
Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.