Book Review: Enigma: A Magical Mystery, by Graeme Base

Young Bertie Badger's Grandpa was a conjurer of note,

With magic spells and magic wand and magic hat and coat.

A Master of Illusion, an Ambassador of Fate,

The famous, one and only, world-renowned Gadzooks the Great.

Summary:

Bertie Badger has great fun visiting his grandpa at the Retirement Home for Elderly Magicians, and watching him do his magic tricks. But one day, Grandpa greets him at the door with terrible news: someone has stolen his special magical props. In fact, the thief has stolen everyone's magical props. And worse still, Grandpa's beloved magic bunny rabbit is missing, too. Bertie is determined to get to the bottom of things. Will he find all the missing props? And who is behind this disappearing act?

For Teachers and Librarians:

Little guys love magic, and Enigma: A Magical Mystery will be great fun for them. Older kids thrill in trying to solve mysteries, and Enigma is full of clues, hints, mystery, and code. As is usual in a Graeme Base book, have your students look closely at the colorful and detailed pictures for the hidden clues and interesting goings-on shoehorned into each and every page. 

This is a great book to use with a mystery unit: have kids identify the components of a mystery story; let them keep detective booklets to keep track of all the possible clues they find within, both in text and pictures; have them create a list of questions to ask the theft victims, then let them play parts and act out their questioning; create a class chart to keep track of the clues they find on their own, discussing how they think the clues will or won't help solve the mystery; have them come up with possible solutions to the mystery and back up their positions. Use the letter at the end of the book to crack the code and discover the hiding places of each item.

You can use this book to fit curriculum in a variety of ways: reading genre (mystery), analytical thinking, math (code), deductive reasoning (figuring out the clues), poetry (the story is in verse), rhyming pairs and phonics, art appreciation (color schemes used in each scene, pictures hidden in the illustrations), components of magic shows (the various methods of magic performers employ)...and so much more.

But most of all, use this book to let your kids have fun with a story, and enjoy reading or having it read to them.

For Parents, Grandparents and Caregivers:

Enigma: A Magical Mystery is the perfect book to get you and your kiddos involved in a sweet story, and have fun activities to do, as well. The story portrays a great example of how a kid can be helpful, shows a positive family relationship, provides a priceless opportunity for you and the kids to bend heads over the book and eagerly search for hidden pictures and clues, and will get you working together to break a code and solve a mystery. With beautiful illustrations, a fun story told in rhyme, and an opportunity for family togetherness, what's not to like?

For the Kids:

Do you love finding clues and solving mysteries? Do you think it's fun to find hidden pictures and solve codes? Do you think magic is totally cool? If so, then Enigma: A Magical Mystery is the book for you! Bertie Badger's grandpa is a retired magician, but he still does shows for Bertie. One day, Grandpa's magical props go missing - and so does his magical bunny rabbit. Will Bertie be able to find them? Can he figure out who took everything? You will find clues in the pictures, and can help find the missing props by solving a secret code. The author and illustrator, Graeme Base, has even hidden little pictures within each big picture for you to have fun searching and finding! What are you waiting for? Go find this book!

Wrapping Up:

Enigma: A Magical Mystery is a warm and fuzzy story packed with magic, mystery, hidden pictures, and a secret code. It's a book sure to be a favorite with the kids, and a great addition to anyone's Graeme Base book collection.

Note: To find out more about author and illustrator Graeme base, click here: Author Spotlight: Graeme Base

To read my review of another Graeme Base title, click here: Book Review: The Eleventh Hour: A Curious Mystery

Title: Enigma: A Magical Mystery

Author and Illustrator: Graeme Base

Pages: 48

Reading Level: Ages 4-8

Publisher and Date: Abrams Books for Young Readers, September 1, 2008

Edition: 1st

Language: English

Published In: United States

Price: $19.95

ISBN-10: 081097245X

ISBN-13: 978-0810972452

Book Review: The Mysterious Benedict Society, by Trenton Lee Stewart

In a city called Stonetown, near a port called Stonetown Harbor, a boy named Reynie Muldoon was preparing to take an important test.

Summary: Reynie's life was about to change, all because of these nine words: "ARE YOU A GIFTED CHILD LOOKING FOR SPECIAL OPPORTUNITES?" Before he knew it, Reynie was standing in a very long line of children all waiting to take that test, which led to another test, and then another, each more mysterious and puzzling than the last. But only four very special children succeed: Reynie, Sticky Washington, Kate Wetherall, and Constance Contraire. They soon discover they've been selected to complete a secret mission that requires the intelligence and resourcefulness that they alone possess. It's a mission filled with mystery, excitement...and danger. Will they accept it? And more importantly, can they succeed if they do?

For Teachers and Librarians: Where to begin? First and foremost, The Mysterious Benedict Society is an excellent story - one that will grab and keep the attention of each of your students. There's something for everyone here: mystery, danger, action, good vs. evil, puzzles, problem-solving, humor...even poetry! Weaved throughout are larger issues about society, power and control, as well as more personal journeys related to self-confidence, self-doubt, inner strength, leadership, trust and friendship. You could branch out into so many different directions, it's mind-boggling. Pick up a copy for yourself and read it. And keep a notebook and pencil right beside you as you read - with the watershed of lesson ideas that will no doubt pour from your mind as you read, you'll be glad you did!

For Parents, Grandparents and Caregivers: Author Trenton Lee Stewart said in an interview with KidsReads.com that the idea for The Mysterious Benedict Society came from his belief that "children are often seen, rarely heard, and always underestimated!" This is definitely a kid-power book. It will show your kids that they are important, and that they have great ideas that are worth listening to and acting upon. They will see that that with hard work and the help of friends and others who care about them, they can do almost anything. The story is action-packed, funny, serious, puzzling, mysterious, sometimes sad, and always surprising. The kids in this story learn a lot about themselves, the world they live in, and the adults who support them. What will your kids get from this story? The possibilities boggle the mind - so make sure to get a copy into their hands as soon as possible.

For the Kids: The world needs saving, but almost nobody knows it. Nobody, that is, except for four kids and the adults who brought them together. And get this: the only ones who can fix what's going wrong is the kids! There is so much in this book to like: a secret mission, snooping around for clues, solving riddles, even figuring out Morse Code. There is danger around every corner, but there's also help around every corner, too - if they can just solve the riddles to figure out what the help is. These are four kids who have the same feelings lots of kids have - they worry about their families, they worry about their friends, they get afraid, they wonder if they're good people and if they're strong enough or smart enough to do what has to be done. They laugh with each other, sometimes they get mad at each other, but they're always there for each other. So, can their friendship survive this most dangerous mission?

For Everyone Else: The Mysterious Benedict Society has a little bit of everything: mystery, action, poetry, humor, adventure, and an epic battle of good vs evil. There's so much to like here, and so many ways for you to identify with so many characters, you'll find it hard to put down...

Wrapping Up:

Title: The Mysterious Benedict Society

Author: Trenton Lee Stewart

Illustrator: Carson Ellis

Pages: 512 pages

Reading Level: Ages 9-12

Publisher and Date: Little, Brown Young Readers, April 1, 2008

Edition: Paperback

Language: English

Published In: United States

Price: $6.99

ISBN-10: 0316003956

ISBN-13: 978-0316003957

Book Review: Harvey Potter's Balloon Farm, by Jerdine Nolen

Harvey Potter was a very strange fellow indeed. He was a farmer, but he didn't farm like my daddy did. He farmed a genuine, U.S. Government Inspected Balloon Farm.

Summary:
Harvey Potter's Balloon Farm is a delightful story that unravels the mysteries surrounding a strange farmer and his, shall we say, unusual crop. We learn all about Harvey Potter and his controversial balloon farm through the observations of a curious young girl. How did he do it? Was it magic, as some folks said? Or was it "real, actual balloons growing out of the plain ole ground?" There's only one way to find out...

Overview:

This book is an original tall tale, told in the tradition of good old front porch stories. Set in a southern rural farming area, the author gives authentic voice to the narrator, who chats with the reader in a right neighborly fashion. Given the remarkable story and breathtaking illustrations, it's no wonder Harvey Potter's Balloon Farm has won multiple awards, including a Notable Book citation from the American Library Association.

Roughly 11 inches tall and 9 inches across, the book is the perfect size for either a personal perusal or a raucous read-aloud. The pages are large and smooth and glossy, with just the right weight - not too sturdy, and not too flimsy. Nearly every page is drenched top to bottom and edge to edge with fantastic, full-color illustrations.

Illustrator Mark Buehner had done two other picture books previously, but this was the book that brought his work to the fore. Each page offers up story events from varying perspectives, pulling the reader right into the story - evoking an unmistakable feeling of actually being there. Color, light and shadow are all used to perfect dramatic effect, setting the mood of each scene and combining seamlessly with Jerdine Nolan's prose. And, look closely! He has hidden a rabbit, a t-rex, a cat, a chicken, a cow and a pig in each picture.

For Teachers and Librarians:

I can personally attest that the little guys just adore this book! I used it every year, in every grade I taught (K-3). It was frequently requested at read-aloud time, and the kids had a blast illustrating their own balloon farms as a follow-up activity. It fits well with units on nutrition (as a quirky aside on farming - and showing a bit of the planting process), fiction stories, fantasy stories, weather, magic... lots of possibilities here. But most of all, it is such a fun story. Without fail, the kids' favorite part was when the girl spied on Harvey Potter as he planted a new crop of balloons. I don't want to spoil the fun, so I'll just say that when you read this part aloud, really ham it up - and be sure to encourage them to join in!

For Parents, Grandparents and Caregivers:

Here's a book that will grab the attention of even the most fidgety of kids. It is fun to hear read aloud, but not too hard to read on their own. The author speaks directly to the reader through the girl telling the story. They can't help but be drawn in, and the pictures are truly the icing on the cake. Watch as their little eyes get round with wonder. Listen as they giggle and laugh at Harvey's planting method. You may want to buy your own copy - it is sure to be an absolute and frequently requested favorite!

For the Kids:

This book is fun, fun, fun! Can you imagine: a balloon farm! Can people really grow balloons right out of the ground? And with so many shapes and colors and faces? You're going to want to check this one out, for sure. Don't forget to really look at the pictures closely: the illustrator hid a rabbit, a t-rex, a cat, a chicken, a cow and a pig on every page. Can you find them?

For Everyone Else:

This is just such an entertaining book. The pictures alone are enough to make it worth your while. The story will make you suspend your disbelief. A balloon farm... wouldn't that be great? Go on, let yourself dream a little...

Wrapping Up:

Harvey Potter's Balloon Farm is one of those books that just grabs you and pulls you right into the story. The writing is excellent, and the pictures are a delight. I highly recommend it!

Title: Harvey Potter's Balloon Farm

Author: Jerdine Nolen

Illustrator: Mark Buehner

Pages: 32

Reading Level: Ages 4-8

Publisher and Date: Lothrup, Lee and Shepard Books, 1994

Edition: 1st

Language: English

Published In: United States

Price: $16.99

ISBN-10: 0688078877

ISBN-13: 978-0688078874

Book Review: The Eleventh Hour: A Curious Mystery, by Graeme Base

 
A book is read, a story ends, a telling tale is told. 
But who can say what mysteries a single page mayhold?

A maze of hidden codes and clues, a clock at every turn,

And only time will tell what other secrets you may learn...

Summary:
The Eleventh Hour: A Curious Mystery is an irresistible invitation to try your hand at solving a most fantastic conundrum. Horace the Elephant is turning eleven, and has invited 11 friends to celebrate with a grand costume gala filled with 11 games and tons of fun. Everything is set to begin at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. But, when the friends all gather at the appointed hour for the feast after a day full of fun and frolicking, a curious mystery is revealed, and the culprit remains afoot. Can you figure out who?

Overview:

This oversized, beautifully illustrated picture book is written entirely in verse. It is 32 glossy, high-color, insanely detailed pages jam-packed with clues, codes, cyphers, and hidden objects to be taken in through picture and poetry and ingenuity. But be careful! The author has thrown in a fair helping of red herrings to keep things interesting.

Whether you're an expert mystery solver, or a novice starting out, take heart! Graeme Base has purposely designed the book so that everyone - tall to small, right-brained to left-brained, detail person to big picture thinker, and everything in between - can find a way to solve this riddle. The journey to find the culprit is the real fun here, as the reader searches for clues amongst the chaos. Even so, if the things just aren't adding up, and you're at your wit's end, and you just gotta know whodunnit, a built-in safety net is included so you won't be left hanging.

For Teachers and Librarians:

Where to begin? This book has so many possibilities for use in the classroom or library. The mystery unit is most obvious, but you could also launch into a lesson on Roman Centurions or the Fall of Rome; discuss what a "red herring" is, as well as the origin of the term; use it as a springboard for teaching your charges to look for clues both in pictures and text; culminate your unit on nutrition with a grand feast of your own. There are references to math, history, games, literature, crime solving... truly endless possibilities. Try it out - how many ways can you find to use this book in your classroom?

For Parents, Grandparents and Caregivers: 

You will love this book! Your kids will love this book! Pull it out on a rainy day, a sunny day, a there's-nothing-to-do-today day, really any day, and you are guaranteed to begin a journey that you may find it hard to tear yourself away from. The pictures alone are a veritable feast for the eyes, and you and your child could spend hours just searching for all the hidden and not-so-hidden gems the author has packed into each illustration. Even without the pictures, the story is enchanting and fun. Work together to find those clues, but don't be surprised if you find yourself searching for this book to do some solo sleuthing when the kiddos aren't around...

For the Kids:

Do you love searching for clues? Do you think it's fun to solve mysteries, look at really cool pictures to find all the hidden ones mixed in, read a really awesome story full of fun and parties and costumes and talking pigs? Would you think it's funny to see lions, giraffes, tigers, mice, pigs, cats, zebras, elephants, swans and crocodiles all charging along trying to win a potato sack race? Then The Eleventh Hour is the book for you. The story is great, and the author has written it so everyone from kids to adults can solve the mystery. Just in case, there's a section included to help - but try not to peek unless you really, really just have to! Trying to find the answer on your own is so much fun!

For Everyone Else:

Mystery lovers, puzzle fans, clue solvers, cypher fans, and all those who enjoy a rollicking story full of twists and turns will simply not be able to put this book down. You could spend literally hours scouring these pages for clue after clue, solving puzzles and brain-busters, getting side-tracked by several red herrings, guessing and second-guessing to try to get to the bottom of this mystery. The real clincher? This can be as easy or as hard as you care to make it, be you a kid, a kid-at-heart, or somewhere in between, or even well beyond. Take a crack at this romp of a mystery. You won't be disappointed.

Wrapping Up:

The Eleventh Hour: A Curious Mystery is a book that appeals to all ages and all kinds of people on all kinds of levels. Grab a pencil and some paper, grab the book, find some clues, solve some riddles, and have a great time.

Title: The Eleventh Hour: A Curious Mystery

Author and Illustrator: Graeme Base

Pages: 32

Reading Level: Ages 9-12

Publisher and Date: Harry N. Abrams, September 1, 1989

Edition: 1st

Language: English

Published In: United States

Price: $18.95

ISBN-10: 0810908514

ISBN-13: 978-0810908512

Book Review: The Sorcerer's Letterbox, by Simon Rose

The Sorcerer's Letterbox begins with a mysterious encounter in England, in 1740, between the queen, and a monk known only as Brother William.  The queen fears for the safety of her son, and has a vision that this monk - who has a reputation as a sorcerer - has something for her that will protect him from harm. He does indeed, and hands her what appears to be an ordinary box before she hurries away.

Who is Brother William?  What was the queen's vision?  And how is an ordinary box going to save her son?

The story jumps forward hundreds of years, to a boy named Jack. Jack's father owns an antique shop, and had long ago given him an antique wooden box that had been in his family for generations.  One day, a small drawer in the box popped open, revealing a scroll, containing a letter written in Middle English.  Later, at his father's shop, a mysterious visitor reveals to Jack - who is the spitting image of the boy king, Edward V - that he is the only one who can respond to the scroll.  "Lives are at stake!"

Overview:

Thus begins a time-traveling thrill ride that pits Jack and Edward against the king's nefarious uncle, who intends to kill Edward and his brother in order to keep the throne for himself.  The two boys are aided in their adventure by a girl named Meg, who knows her way around the hidden passages in the castle where the boy king is imprisoned with his brother.  Together, Jack and Meg work to try and save Edward and his brother from certain doom.

This book is a spine-tingling journey through space and time, filled with danger, evil plots, and seemingly impossible situations, with lots of plot twists, turns and surprises to keep the reader on the edge of their seat!

For Teachers and Librarians:

This book is based on the historical story known as The Princes in the Tower, where King Edward IV of England died, leaving his young son to be crowned King Edward V at 12 years old.  But, Edward IV's brother Richard took the throne for his own by exploiting a technicality, and imprisoned Edward V and his brother in the the Tower of London. They were gradually seen less and less until no one saw them out at all.  The suspicion was that Richard killed his nephews, but it was never proven, and conspiracy theories abound.  This book would be a perfect accompaniment to an English history unit.  Or a unit on the English monarchy.  Or a mystery unit.  The possibilities are endless!  

For Parents, Grandparents and Caregivers:

This is a great book to get reluctant readers excited about reading.  Full of action, adventure, mystery, and a hint of rebelliousness, they can't help but get pulled into the story, either by reading it themselves, or having it read to them.  It is a good way to get them interested in history, as well as mystery books.  Once they've read this, it would be so easy to help them go online or to the library and find out the real details of The Princes in the Tower, and perhaps find more mystery books, to keep them reading.

For Kids:

The Sorcerer's Letterbox has it all: mystery, adventure, kids in charge, time travel...  Imagine, four kids are the only ones who can save the true King of England!  They have to battle evil uncles, wiggle through secret tunnels underneath a moat, sneak through hidden passages in castle walls, escape from peasants hoping to turn them in and collect a reward, all while trying to be sure each of them ends up in their right time without losing their lives in the process.  Do the princes survive?  Does Jack ever get back to his own time?  And how does Meg figure into all of this?  Curious?  Then go pick up the book and get started... you won't be disappointed.

For Everyone Else:

This is a great book for the history buff - history from a kid's perspective is quite different from The Establishment's point of view.  No one really knows what happened to The Princes in the Tower, but the author provides an interesting possibility.  Those who love a good adventure or mystery book will find it equally interesting.  Though written for the 9-12 set, there is a lot here to keep the 12+ set coming back for more, too.

Wrapping Up:

The Sorcerer's Letterbox is the perfect combination of history and fantasy.  Hurry to the store or the library, find it, and start reading!

Title: The Sorcerer's Letterbox

Author: Simon Rose

Cover Illustration: George Juhasz

Pages: 114

Reading Level: Ages 9-12

Publisher and Date: Tradewinds, March 2006

Edition: paperback

Language: English

Published in: Canada and the United Kingdom

Price: $7.95

ISBN-10: 1896580521

ISBN-13: 978-1896580524