Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Read

Amazon

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Screenwise Verdict

Nancy Springer created something genuinely fun here: a Victorian mystery series that doesn't talk down to kids while also not traumatizing them. Enola is the kind of protagonist kids actually want to read about—smart, rebellious in productive ways, and solving real problems rather than just worrying about school drama.

The historical setting works because it's not just window dressing; the constraints of Victorian society create real stakes for Enola's choices. She can't just call the police or Google things—she has to use her wits, which makes the mysteries more satisfying to solve alongside her.

The main caveat: don't hand these to a struggling 8-year-old expecting easy chapter books. The reading level is legitimately higher than advertised. But for confident readers or family read-alouds, this is a solid series that'll keep kids engaged through all nine books. The 2023 edition bundles them nicely, and at 4.8/5 on Amazon, readers clearly aren't just tolerating them for the educational value—they're actually enjoying the ride.

Age Fit

Publisher says 8-12 (grades 3-5), but the actual reading level is closer to 6th grade. Strong readers aged 9-10 can handle it independently; younger kids (7-8) would benefit from read-alouds. Upper end depends on interest in historical mysteries—some 13-14 year olds will still enjoy it, but it skews younger middle grade.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

88

Victorian-era mystery series featuring a resourceful, independent young heroine who challenges gender norms while maintaining strong family bonds. Clean content with mild violence typical of mystery novels. Models problem-solving, courage, and standing up for oneself. The coming-of-age elements are handled with heart and humor without being preachy.

Imaginative

82

Takes the beloved Sherlock Holmes universe and reimagines it through the lens of his clever younger sister. Each book presents unique mysteries with Victorian London as a rich backdrop—from cryptic messages hidden in crinolines to disappearing duchesses. The historical setting invites curiosity about codes, disguises, and deductive reasoning, though it's more traditional mystery-solving than open-ended creative play.

Safe

92

Extremely safe content for a mystery series. Action takes place in Victorian slums with mild peril typical of the genre—no graphic violence, no sexual content, no profanity. The mysteries involve missing persons and social intrigue rather than gore or trauma. Parent reviews consistently note the clean, age-appropriate nature of the content.

Enriching

85

Strong feminist themes as Enola navigates Victorian society's restrictions on women while solving complex mysteries. Readers learn about Victorian history, social class dynamics, and women's rights movements organically through the story. Builds critical thinking through puzzle-solving and codes. The empowerment narrative is genuine without being heavy-handed. High Amazon rating (4.8/5) suggests strong reader engagement.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Enola is a genuinely clever, resourceful heroine who uses her brain to solve mysteries and challenge Victorian gender norms—refreshing female protagonist energy
Nine books means kids who get hooked have a substantial series to devour, and the mysteries vary enough to stay interesting (missing marquesses, bizarre bouquets, cryptic crinolines)
Sneaks in real history about Victorian London, women's rights, and social class without feeling like a textbook—kids learn while being entertained
Clean mystery content with just enough peril to be exciting but nothing that'll give nightmares or require awkward conversations
Strong 4.8/5 Amazon rating suggests readers genuinely enjoy these, not just parents forcing 'educational' content

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What to Watch For

Reading level is legitimately 6th grade despite the 8-12 age recommendation—younger kids may need it read aloud or might struggle with vocabulary
Victorian setting means some outdated social attitudes appear (that's kind of the point, since Enola rebels against them, but worth noting)
If your kid bounced off the Netflix movie expecting non-stop action, the books are more cerebral and slower-paced

Conversation Starters

"Enola has to disguise herself and break rules to do what she thinks is right—when do you think it's okay to break rules?"
"What would it be like to live in a time when girls couldn't do most of the things you do now? What would you miss most?"
"Enola uses codes and ciphers to send secret messages—want to try making up our own family code?"
"Why do you think Enola's brothers want her to act like a 'proper lady' when she's so good at detective work?"

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Enola Holmes