2024
WISE Score
Amazon
A high-stakes estate sale mystery that proves one person's junk is literally another kid's clue to a massive secret.
4.7
4.7View →Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)
This is exactly the kind of book we want kids reading. It’s smart, fast-paced, and written by a pro who respects her audience's intelligence. Haddix has been a staple for decades for a reason—she doesn't do boring.
If your kid liked The Westing Game or The Mysterious Benedict Society, this is a no-brainer. It’s wholesome without being preachy and exciting without being trashy. It’s a solid 2024 release that feels like a modern classic.
Perfect for the 8-12 crowd who like puzzles and secrets but aren't ready for gritty YA drama. It's a smart pick for kids who think they've outgrown 'baby' books.
Margaret Peterson Haddix is a master of middle-grade fiction that balances high stakes with emotional intelligence. The story prioritizes teamwork and solving problems over cheap thrills.
The series turns the mundane world of estate sales and 'junk' into a playground for detective work. It encourages kids to see the history and stories hidden in everyday objects.
It's a clean, suspenseful mystery. No graphic violence, language, or mature themes beyond what a typical 10-year-old can handle. It’s a safe bet for a classroom or a bedside table.
Nominated for a 2025 Edgar Award for Best Juvenile mystery. It challenges readers to think logically and piece together clues alongside the protagonists.
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