Showing posts with label Mystery. Show all posts

Book Review: The Secret of Indigo Moon (The Dopple Ganger Chronicles)

The Secret of Indigo Moon: The Doppler Ganger Chronicles

My Review:

I am new to the world of developing a storyline that is partly pictorial and partly text. Reading The Secret of Indigo Moon, the second book of DG The Dopple Ganger Chronicles, introduced me to an adventurous drama of crime and separation with two identical twins, Saskia, and Sadie, along with an inspirational message of Christian hope woven in.

Beautifully written by the #1 New York Times Bestselling Author, G.P. Taylor, I soon discovered Mr. Taylor had a unique writing style of finding a good story and illustrating it with great visuals. This keeps young people happy and ignites them to read more. What a very successful idea, kind of a novel/comic book.

This book is a real page-turner with lots of twists and turns to spark your interest until the very end. If you have a juvenile reader with a short attention span, this is a great reading source for them. Read the chilling mystery of what became of Ms. Olivia, the previous school's administrator.

I especially love the relationships and funny dialogue between Erik, Sadie, and Saskia. The name Dorcas Potts, a 24-year-old American detective, cracks me up along with her sassy personality. And my favorite quote is on Page 190: "Sometimes to find wisdom you have to look beyond locked rooms."

If you are a fan of Bruce Willis, Batman and Laura Croft, you will LOVE reading about secret passageways, plus lots of disguises and cover-ups. I recommend The Secret of Indigo Moon to middle school students and their parents who like this style of literature.

Being a biker chic (a long time ago) and having played lots of rock music on the piano I can relate to some of the author's vision. Being a grandma of 4wonderful grandsons who love adventure, this will be an added plus to our reading library.

4 stars.

The Doppler Ganger Chronicles

Disclosure: Book provided by Tyndale in exchange for an honest review.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their Tyndale Blog Network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Book Summary:

From best-selling author, G.P. Taylor comes the highly anticipated second installment of The Dopple Ganger Chronicles, a series that combines art and traditional text to help “reluctant readers” discover the wonder of books.
Erik Morrissey Ganger, famed explorer and a detective (well, in his dreams), and his mischief-making sidekicks, twins Sadie and Saskia Dopple, didn’t go looking for a secret tunnel beneath the school. They never intended to make the acquaintance of a shifty private eye with a nose for trouble. It wasn’t part of the plan to come face to face with an old enemy, one with an agenda of his own that could destroy them all. And unraveling the “secret of the indigo moon” was the farthest thing from their minds.
At Isambard Dunstan’s School for Wayward Children, these things just seem to happen.
In The Secret of Indigo Moon, confirmed troublemakers Erik, Sadie, and Saskia plunge headlong into a new and perilous mystery, one that challenges everything they thought they knew about their lives, themselves, and whom it’s safe to trust.
The Secret of Indigo Moon

Author Bio

G. P. Taylor

A motorcyclist and former rock band roadie turned Anglican minister, Graham Peter (G. P.) Taylor has been hailed as "hotter than Potter" and "the new C. S. Lewis" in the United Kingdom. His first novel, Shadowmancer, reached #1 on the New York Times Best Sellers List in 2004 and has been translated into 48 languages. His other novels include Wormwood (another New York Times best-seller which was nominated for a Quill Book Award), The Shadowmancer Returns The Curse of Salamander Street, Tersias the Oracle, and Mariah Mundi. Taylor currently resides in North Yorkshire with his wife and three children.

I loved the interview at www.teenreads.com and I think you will find it interesting. So many insights are shared here, along with Taylor's motivation and passion. I look forward to reading more in the series from this very cool author.

The Secret of Indigo Moon (The Dopple Ganger Chronicles)

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

The Miracle of Mercy Land: Blog Tour and Review

Kelly Blewett, a freelance publicist working with the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group, invited LadyD Books to participate in the blog campaign for River Jordan's The Miracle of Mercy Land. The blog campaign runs from October 25-29th. Indeed, I said "Yes", so a big thank you goes to Kelly and WaterBrook Multnomah for providing the book for review.

Book Summary:

Mercy Land has made some unexpected choices for a young woman in the 1930s. The sheltered daughter of a traveling preacher, she chooses to leave her rural community to move to nearby Bay City on the warm, gulf-waters of southern Alabama. There she finds a job at the local paper and spends seven years making herself indispensable to old Doc Philips, the publisher, and editor. Then she gets a frantic call at dawn—it’s the biggest news story of her life, and she can’t print a word of it.

Doc has come into possession of a curious book that maps the lives of everyone in Bay City—decisions they’ve made in the past, and how those choices affect the future. Mercy and Doc are consumed by the mystery locked between the pages—Doc because he hopes to right a very old wrong, and Mercy because she wants to fulfill the book’s strange purpose. But when a mysterious stranger shows up, Mercy begins to understand she may have to choose between love and loneliness . . . or good and evil . . . for the rest of her life.

The Miracle of Mercy Land

The Author

River Jordan began her writing career as a playwright where her original works were produced, including Mama Jewels: Tales from Mullet Creek, Soul, Rhythm and Blues, and Virga.

Ms. Jordan's first novel, The Gin Girl (Livingston Press, 2003), has garnered such high praise as "This author writes with hard-bitten confidence comparable to Ernest Hemingway. And yet, in the Southern tradition of William Faulkner, she can knit together sentences that can take your breath."

Kirkus Reviews described her second novel, The Messenger of Magnolia Street, as "a beautifully written atmospheric tale." It was applauded as "a tale of wonder" by Southern Living, who chose the novel as their Selects feature for March 2006, and described by other reviewers as " a riveting, magical mystery" and "a remarkable book."

Her third novel, Saints In Limbo has been painted by some of the finest fiction voices of today as "a lyrical and relentlessly beautiful book," and "a wise, funny, joyful and deadly serious book, written with a poet's multilayered sense of metaphor and meter and a page-turning sense of urgency," and reported by Paste Magazine as "a southern gothic masterpiece."

Her fourth novel, The Miracle of Mercy Land, arrives on September 7, 2010. Her first non-fiction work, Praying for Strangers, An Adventure of the Human Spirit will be published by Penguin/Berkley on April 5, 2011.

Ms. Jordan teaches and speaks around the country on "The Power of Story", and produces and hosts the radio show Clearstory Radio from Nashville. When not traveling the back roads of America, River lives with her husband and their Great Pyrenees lap dog in Nashville, Tennessee.

My Thoughts

The story is set in a sleepy Southern town in the 1930s. There we find one of the main characters, Mercy Land, a trustful newspaper reporter, who encounters a mysterious book that holds the past, secrets, and future of every person in Bay City. Mercy works along-side Doc, the owner of the local town newspaper, The Banner. He is an elderly guy, full of wisdom and experience and becomes Mercy's closest friend and mentor.

Someone from Mercy's past, John Quincy who is a bit mysterious yet ever so handsome and smooth in all his ways, comes to town and is also interested in this book. Mercy tries to uncover the book’s purpose but soon discovers that the contents within burden her with the responsibility of so many choices that could affect future lives forever, including hers.

I couldn't put this mesmerizing book down. I finished it in a few days and was so impressed with River Jordan's professional writing style. She is an excellent word-crafter. Her words come alive and make me feel such a part of this marvelous story, a spiritual thriller.

The Miracle of Mercy Land is a magical story of twists and turns, going deeper into hurting, broken lives and discovering the power of redemption in mercy and love. 5 stars! The book has elements of mystery, romance, and historical fiction. A win-win combination from this brilliant author. I look forward to reading more from River Jordan. 5 stars!

What if you had the power to amend the choices you made in the past? Would you do it even if it changed everything?

The Miracle of Mercy Land

Product Details

Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: WaterBrook Press; Original edition (September 7, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0307457052
ISBN-13: 978-0307457059

For more information and a look into a chapter of the book, visit her site.

http://www.riverjordan.us/books/miracle-of-mercy-land/

I LOVED this book!

-- LadyD

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me.” — C. S. Lewis

LadyD Book Review: The Composer Is Dead

Cover of "The Composer Is Dead l Book & CD

Cover of The Composer Is Dead (Book & CD)If you have ever heard an orchestra play, then you know that musicians are most certainly guilty of something. Where exactly were the violins on the night in question? Did anyone see the harp? Is the trumpet protesting a bit too boisterously?

In this perplexing murder mystery, every instrument is being interrogated!

Lemony Snicket and Nathaniel Stookey collaborate on a classical music album and book for kids. On the CD, the music is furnished both with and without narration.

From the Publisher:

The Composer Is Dead is a collaborative effort by the San Francisco Symphony, Stookey, and Mr. Snicket, also allegedly known as Daniel Handler. The goal of The Composer Is Dead commission, book, and CD is to build upon the wild popularity of Mr. Snicket’s inventive humor and Stookey’s new score to introduce the orchestra to young listeners in an original and entertaining way. The Composer Is Dead engages listeners with a gripping plot—in this case, a whodunit murder mystery—while the music and Snicket’s narration work together to provide an entertaining introduction to the instruments of the orchestra, in the vein of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf and Britten’s The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.

The Story:

The investigator, who is the narrator, well he is trying to solve a murder mystery. He is trying to figure out WHO killed the composer.

"I will begin by interviewing all the usual suspects," the Inspector said. "Like all people in his line of work, this Composer had many enemies lurking in the orchestra. They can lurk all they like, but I will find them wherever they are lurking.
I will find them if they are lurking in the strings.
I will find them if they are lurking in the brass.
I will find them if they are lurking in the woodwinds.
I will find them if they are lurking in the percussion section.
I will find them wherever--wherever they are lurking,
I will find them!"

Do you have a favorite orchestra instrument? Difficult question, I know. I love French Horns and Cellos!

"Well, I guess that takes care of the strings," the Inspector said, "Oh--the Violas! I forgot all about you."
"Everyone forgets about us," said the Violas bitterly. "We play the notes in the chords that nobody cares about. We play crucial countermelodies nobody hears. We often have to stay late after performances and stack up all the chairs. We spent last night feeling sorry for ourselves as usual."

Author

How did the title The Composer is Dead come about?

"Well, I first thought the idea would be to do a murder mystery, so each section of the orchestra could be questioned. As I thought about it more, it seemed perfect, because composers can't wait to be dead because only then will anyone listen to them, probably. It seemed good to take all the treachery and backstabbing that happens within an orchestra, between an orchestra and conductor and an orchestra and composer, that you could take the title literally."

The Composer Is Dead

"And then it also occurred to me that a) so many people were tired of taking their children to hear Peter and the Wolf over and over again; and that b) in some ways, Peter and the Wolf doesn't really teach you about the orchestra," Handler says. "As someone who had grown up on classical music and was in love with the orchestra, I saw there was an opportunity here to make a piece which might speak more directly about the instruments and how they work together."

Take a look at this amazon video, if interested. The Composer Is Dead

This is an excellent book using wordplay, humor, and mild suspense. I can't think of anything finer, well maybe seeing a baby being born, but it is a fantastic experience to introduce children to the world of the symphony. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who has been in a band or orchestra or likes classical music or Lemony Snicket. 5 stars! Loved the book!

As always, I thank you for stopping by and I enjoy hearing of your likes and dislikes regarding children's books!

-- LadyD

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me.” — C. S. Lewis

Friday 56: Lottie's Adventure-Review

My Thoughts:

Lottie's Adventure: A Kidnapping Unraveled is a must read. It is the perfect gift for preteens, parents, and grandmothers. The story is absolutely fascinating. I loved the book and easily finished it in one night. Lottie is a spunky young girl with beautiful curly hair who lives with her Hispanic working mother and elderly aunt. Lottie is fun and loving to all and is able to let others know exactly how she feels. Lottie melts the heart of Mrs. Harrolton, her wealthy grandmother who lives in a mansion. Lottie's friendship with Charles Ray unfolds as the story line develops with exciting chapters and dramatic ending. Teachers can use this fabulous book with a guide that Barbara provides. Her writings are wonderful and I look forward to reading more from the author. I highly recommend this one with 5 stars.

Lottie's Adventure: A Kidnapping Unraveled

About The Author:

Barbara is a grandmother of 8 . She also was an English and Theater Arts teacher for over 22 years. Barbara Frances decided to work with a reading specialist friend of hers to make the book not just a great adventure but also a learning experience. As part of that, they collaborated in creating a Teacher's Guide to help teachers use the book as a reading improvement tool in classrooms. They make the guide available as a free download right on the book's website at:
http://lottiesadventure.com

Lottie’s Adventure: A Kidnapping Unraveled

Product Description

Lottie's Adventure: A Kidnapping Unraveled, is a new, action-packed children's book written especially for ages 8 through 14. Children will enjoy this exciting read while also improving their reading skills. Twenty-nine chapters filled with twists and turns keep kids reading to discover the outcome. Lottie, a lively ten-year-old Hispanic girl, longs for something new and different in her life. Her summers up to this point have all been, more or less, the same. Then the arrival of a magical letter and a TV newscast transforms her vacation time in a high adventure. An adventure which involves trying to relate to a cold, estranged, yet very rich grandmother, freeing a kidnapped ten-year-old African American boy from a locked room, hiding him in a safe place, and then fleeing with him from a kidnapper who is always just a step or two behind.

Product Details

* Reading level: Young Adult

* Paperback: 180 pages

* Publisher: Positive Imaging, LLC (May 30, 2008)

* Language: English

· ISBN-10: 061516787X

Friday 56 Guide:

* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions on your blog or (if you do not have your own blog) in the comments section of this blog.
*Post a link along with your post back to this blog Starting Fresh and to Storytime with Tonya and Friends
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual. Use the CLOSEST.

This a.m. I found the book that I had just finished reading beside me. It kind of made sense for me to post the sentence on page 56. Soon I'll be starting up another brand new book for reviewing. I just love new beginnings. But there is also something to be said about reporting in, posting a review and sharing with a blogging community a great treasure that you just read and recommending to friends that you read the book, too. Wouldn't you agree? I'd love to hear about your special book this week.

Here's mine:

" Lottie put up her hand, "Shh, he's coming. I'll find you. Don't give up."

From: Lottie's Adventure: A Kidnapping Unraveled.

Special thanks to Mr. Bill Benitez for providing this excellent book for review.

-- LadyD

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me.” — C. S. Lewis

Wrapping Up a Year with My Favorite Children's Mystery Books

Looking back over 2009, I would say two of my favorite children's mystery books are:
Renee Hand- The Case of the Missing Sock and The Case of Red Rock Canyon and
Elysabeth Eldering- State of Wilderness and State of Quarries

You will find my review for Renee's book at:

http://ladyd-books.blogspot.com/2009/05/review-of-crypto-capers-book-1and-2-by.html
I know Renee Hand has added another book to the series called

The Crypto-Capers in The Legend of the Golden Monkey

I would like to add this children's book to my "must read" list for 2010!

You will find my review of Elysabeth's book at:

http://ladyd-books.blogspot.com/2009/06/elisabeth-eldering-state-of-wilderness.html

If you haven't read these books, I recommend them to you for your children to read.

Warmest Regards,
~ LadyD

Book Tour and Review: Bernadine Feagins’ HAKIM AND TERRANCE SHADOW MYSTERY

ABOUT BERNADINE FEAGINS:

Bernadine Feagins is a new author who is looking forward to many years of writing children’s books. She has always had a love of children and worked many years in early childhood education. During these times she witnessed the joy children felt as she would demonstratively read books. In addition she is a very active mom who loves to nurture not only her children, but those of family and community. She often had story time with those she loved and cared for. She developed her story telling skills through the numerous books she read to children, this gave her an inspiration to tell her own story, Hakim and Terrance Shadow Mystery. When Bernadine isn’t reading to children or involved in some other child nurturing activity, she can be found as a business woman that works for the IRS. Bernadine is available for interviews, book signings or public reading in schools and libraries.

Visit Bernadine online at
http://www.mvpmedial.com/feaginsworld

You might also like to view Cheryl Malandrinos' excellent interview with the author:
http://www.broowaha.com/articles/5582/interview-author-bernadine-feagins

ABOUT HAKIM AND TERRANCE SHADOW MYSTERY:

Hakim and Terrance Shadow Mystery is a wonderful story about a lost dog. Two best friends go on an adventure to bring Shadow home. Along the way you will meet nice neighbors, some kind business owners and many others. The mystery begins when someone finally provides a clue. What do you think that clue is? Find out today with your purchase of Hakim and Terrance Shadow Mystery.

EXCERPT and my favorite quote from the book:

The next day, Hakim woke up without his dog.

“Are you alright Hakim?” asked his mother.

“It’s hard not having Shadow here. He always licks my face to wake me up.” said Hakim.

“I miss him,” said Hakim.

“Why don’t you and Terrance make some flyers and put them on the poles, trees, and neighborhood stores.” said Hakim’s mother. “Don’t forget to ask first before doing so, Hakim,” added his mother.

Product Details

* Paperback: 68 pages
* Publisher: lulu.com (August 7, 2009)
* Language: English
* ISBN-10: 0557090415
* ISBN-13: 978-0557090419

My Review:

Shadow Mystery is a wonderful children’s book about a boy named Hakim, his faithful dog, Shadow, and his best friend, Terrance. Shadow disappears one day and with the help of Terrance, Hakim’s family and people from the neighborhood, Hakim and Shadow are reunited.

Have you ever lost a family dog before? Well, I have several times and being that I raised Australian shepherd puppies, it was always a sigh of relief and immense joy to see your long lost friend come home. I love how the author Bernadine Feagins shows the relationship with the two boys as close friends and how they go about solving the problem of finding Hakim's dog. Bernadine warmly ties in a valuable lesson that doing the right thing is not always easy as Samyaha, a young girl, soon discovers.

What I especially like about the book is that there is a relationship between friends and animals, a sense of being together and belonging. The plot develops and moves along nicely showing the feelings and emotions of two boys and a girl. Every boy and girl can identify and relate to these feelings. Bernadine brings quality writing to the table with her special style of encouraging good self-esteem in young people. I look forward to reading more from the author. I give the book 5 stars and recommend this children's book with good illustrations to you. I liked the book!

Thank you Pump Up Your Book Promo for providing the book for review. You can purchase the book at:

Hakim & Terrance Shadow Mystery !

Warmest Regards,
~ LadyD

Elysabeth Eldering- State of Wilderness and State of Quarries Review

Image by djwudi via Flickr

Are you good at solving mysteries or recalling various geography trivia of the United States? Remember the wooden shape puzzle pieces of all 48 states we would assemble way back then? Oh yes, and now we've added 2 more states! I remember that when I was in school. It seems like yesterday that I was driving my own three children to Grandma's house, playing road trip games. Well, today you can approach a fun way of discovering numerous facts of learning geography questions through a series of children's books, clue by clue!

I have the greatest pleasure of sharing my review of a delightful mystery trivia series, the Junior Geography Detective Squad with you. First, before I tell you about two books I just read, State of Wilderness and State of Quarries, let me introduce you to the author of JGDS, Elysabeth Eldering.

Elysabeth comes from a military family background, so she has had first-hand experience in traveling around throughout her childhood. These collective experiences developed in her a desire and passion for a broader perspective of this beautiful country of ours, the United States. Elysabeth Eldering has placed in numerous writing contests and the SCWW anthology, The Petigru Review. Her new series, The Junior Geography Detective Squad takes you on an unforgettable journey of learning about the individual states within the United States.

State of Wilderness is the first installment of the 50 States Mystery Trivia Series, Junior Geography Detective Squad. You will meet three very realistic characters, Matt, Mary Beth, who is Matt's younger sister and Guy who has been friends since they were in Kindergarten. Their relationship is woven with teasing, squabbling, and competition that goes with the territory of being almost thirteen!

Elysabeth brilliantly draws all ages into her books because Matt has a new electronic game! While showing it to Guy, a challenge is given. Who can figure out the mystery state from the given clues first? And so begins the fun adventure of working their way through the different fifty states of the series. Along the way, the children gather "bonus" clues that reveal territories. “Want to make a bet?” Matt looked over at his friend. “A bet? Sure, let’s write down our answers when we think we know the state, and the one who knows it sooner get to pick what the loser has to do.”

State of Wilderness

The added excitement of puzzles and activities comes with each book for the students to complete. Teachers, parents, and children will enjoy geography lessons with fun-filled game playing adventure.

State of Wilderness (Paperback) $12.50
# Reading level: Ages 9-12
# Paperback: 100 pages
# Publisher: 4RV Publishing LLC (June 27, 2008)
# Language: English
# ISBN-10: 0979751357
# ISBN-13: 978-0979751356

In the second book of the series, State of Quarries, the clues become easier in the quest of identifying the state. Once the game is over and the state's identity has been revealed, there is a section that provides more facts about the state and a series of discussion questions.
State of Quarries

State of Quarries is beautifully illustrated, like the first book, by Aidana WillowRaven. I especially like Aidana's rustic drawings, cover art and computer clues.

Product Details
* Reading level: Ages 9-12
* Paperback: 100 pages $14.99
* Publisher: 4RV Publishing LLC (March 19, 2009)
* Language: English
* ISBN-10: 097975139X
* ISBN-13: 978-0979751394

To learn more about Elysabeth’s writing career visit her at:

http://jgdsseries.blogspot.com

http://junior-geography-detective-squad.weebly.com/index.html

http://elysabethsstories.blogspot.com

http://elysabetheldering.weebly.com/index.html
http://bookmarket.ning/profile/ElysabethEldering

What I like the most:

Elysabeth is a very giving person. Her organizational skills shine brightly as she gathers facts and information on all our states for us. Her approach to learning U.S. geography with details of state flowers, famous residents, state word searches and coloring pages will culminate a spark to participate in this fun loving quest for answers to this amazing geography series. Your perspective of studying U.S. geography will be changed, for sure. I'm looking forward to Book #3...

My rating: 5+ stars!

Come aboard the Junior Geography Detective Squad 50 States Mystery Trivia Series and meet South Carolina's warm hospitality of author Elysabeth Eldering. Best wishes and much continued success to you Elysabeth, as you educate and enlighten our hearts and minds. I have enjoyed our trip together through this one beautiful state!

-- LadyD

Review of The Crypto Capers Book: The Case of the Missing Sock and The Case of Red Rock Canyon by Renee Hand

Are You A Puzzle Solver? You know those crossword puzzles, then there are word scrambles. Well, now you will find cryptograms to work on to help solve mysteries along with a group of young children plus their Granny!

Renee Hand’s stunning new mystery series, The Crypto-Capers, is an excellent read for your children. Thanks to Cheryl Malandrinos for giving me the opportunity to review these great detective books. I received signed copies with bookmarks and a sweet note enclosed from the author of the Case of the Missing Sock and the Case of Red Rock Canyon. A big thank you to Renee Hand for such a warm welcome to her new children’s mystery book series!

Book #1 The Crypto-Capers: The Case of the Missing Sock

Right from the beginning Renee’s award winning style of writing draws you in. The author is able to create an atmosphere of mystery and wonder through likable and well-known characters such as Sherlock Holmes. Throughout the book, you will follow Max and Mia, young detectives who are asked from a rich man in Florida to help find his wife’s stolen birthday present. It seems an antique sock with a specially made pair of sunglasses tucked inside is missing.

I must warn you from the beginning, you will not want to put this book down because it is that good. One book can easily be read in a day. Basically, the plot revolves around Max and Mia easily solving clues using cryptograms. The Crypto -Capers are a team of young siblings Max and Mia from London, plus their lovable Granny Nellie Holmes who is always forgetting something or wandering off and the sibling’s best friend, Morris a computer genius.

What I especially like about the Case of the Missing Sock is how these youngsters go about finding solutions through their great deductions and reasoning skills. Children will get involved with reading this book on any level and will have fun figuring out the paper clues. Of course, if you get stumped, Renee easily provides answers to the cryptograms at the back of the book… but wait, no peeking. You’ll discover and solve the clues right along with Max and Mia throughout these wonderful children’s mystery series. My rating is 5+ stars. I loved this book. The price $12.95

Book #2 The Case of Red Rock Canyon

Now the second book of the series is called The Case of Red Rock Canyon. I have been told that it’s important to read this particular series in order. With Book #2, the stolen item and assignment is A missing Orchid Ruby Necklace. The team heads to Las Vegas, Nevada, where they are thrown into the dramatic world of theater to solve their next mystery.

Personally, I found Book #2 action packed and intense at times. You know, the kind of material kids love to read. The young detective team must sift through the clues to figure out what is truth, and what are lies. One of their lives will be in the balance. I think you will find this book an adventure of self-discovery and courage!

I highly recommend Renee Hands mystery series for children ages 9-12 and their parents. The paperback books are reasonably priced and the treasures inside are priceless. I am fond of the character Nellie because I am a Grandma also. And it is quite an adventure to be with my two precious Grandsons! As I recall, my Mother was so good at doing crossword puzzles. I found myself being drawn into solving all these paper clues along with the professional team of Max and Mia. What fun!

The Crypto-Capers: The Case of Red Rock Canyon

I have made a strong connection with Renee’s writings. She reminds me of a modern day ‘Joan Wilder’. Congratulations Renee Hand on a winning series of children’s mystery books!

For more information about this lovely lady, visit her website
http://reneeahand.com

Much continued success to Renee,
LadyD

P.S the Blog Tour kicks off soon. Take a look at the trailer!
The Crypto-Capers by Renée Hand

Promotional video for the new children's interactive detective series by Renée Hand. In "The Crypto-Capers" readers must solve the cryptograms and puzzles to help the detectives solve the ...

-- LadyD

Books For Boys- Max Elliot Anderson

I had written an earlier post on a subject that is close to my heart...nourish the love of reading!

How to raise a reader
by Mary VanClay

Reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board

"It's never too early to steer your child toward books. But for toddlers, the goal is not to make sure they can read the classics before they're out of preschool. "The phrase to remember is 'developmentally appropriate,'" If interested, read more at

http://ladyd-books.blogspot.com/2009/04/how-to-raise-reader.html

It seems that I'm not the only one interested in helping children become readers. Are you familiar with Max Elliot Anderson? Here is his comment of kind words to me:

"I always appreciate finding others who are concerned about helping children become readers.
That's because I grew up as a reluctant reader. And my father was the author of over 70 books. Now I write action-adventure and mystery books, especially for tween boys. My blog, Books for boys, is # 4 on Google today.
Keep up your good work!"

So, who is Max Anderson? I love the name Max because that's my Uncle's name! So, let's visit the world of Max Elliot Anderson and start with his blog:

http://booksandboys.blogspot.com

Right away Max lets you know what his blog is all about and why you will want to stay awhile and drink fresh inspiration from his writing skills!

"Here we will concentrate on books for boys, reluctant readers, and why reading is so important. After all, readers are the leaders others follow."

I was impressed not only with Max's professional writing skills but now I had read about his blog reaching # 1 on Google when people are searching for Books For Boys.
April 16, 2009 - Eight years ago, children’s author, Max Elliot Anderson, sensed a need in the market for books for boys.
“I noticed a predominance of books for girls or books that had a girl as the main character. My background is in the production of motion pictures for children. Through that experience, I learned that girls would watch a boy’s story, but boys were not interested in girl’s stories. So I used that same template in my writing.”... more at:
http://www.1888pressrelease.com/children-s-author-s-blog-reached-the-top-position-on-google-pr-112709.html

In Jack W. Regan's interview of Max, I learned a little more of the author's background and of his future projects. "I feel better suited for writing action-adventures and mysteries for tweens, especially boys... I find writing for kids to be the most fun, and very easy. So far I’ve never experienced writer’s block." more of the interview with Max:

http://jackwregan.blogspot.com/2009/04/max-elliot-anderson-interview.html

In reading up on the surprise visitor to my blog, I discovered that Max Anderson completed 35 manuscripts. Seven of these are published!

* Newspaper Caper

Newspaper Caper (Tweener Press Adventure Series #1)

* Terror at Wolf Lake

Terror at Wolf Lake (Tweener Press Adventure Series #2)

* North Woods Poachers

North Woods Poachers (Tweener Press Adventure Series, No. 3)
* Mountain Cabin Mystery

Mountain Cabin Mystery (Tweener Press Adventure Series #4)

* Big Rig Rustlers

Big Rig Rustlers (Tweener Press Adventure Series, No. 5)
* Secret of Abbott's Cave

Secret of Abbott's Cave (Tweener Press Adventure Series #6)
* Legend of the White Wolf

Legend of the White Wolf (Tweener Press Adventure Series #7)

Seven is my favorite number! With the looks of this great list of book reading material, I know I plan to invest in all of these paperbacks for my Grandson's future reading!

I am honored and blessed to have received a visit from this wonderful author, Max Elliot Anderson, who shares the same passion with me... getting kids hooked on reading!

Max, thanks for stopping by!

~ LadyD