This is a solid, well-executed early chapter book series that does exactly what it promises: gives beginning readers accessible mysteries with a nice STEM twist. The interactive elements are genuinely helpful for keeping kids engaged, and the mysteries are believable without being boring.

That said, it's 2009 vintage, and while the content holds up fine, it doesn't have the visual pizzazz or modern pacing that many kids expect now. If your kid loves puzzles and logical thinking, this series will hit the spot. If they need graphic novel-level illustrations or faster action, they might find it a bit dry.

Bottom line: Great for the right kid in that sweet spot of learning to read chapter books, especially if they like Encyclopedia Brown-style mysteries. Not a must-read classic, but a reliable choice that won't disappoint.