This is exactly the kind of middle-grade adventure that makes kids fall in love with reading. Katherine Rundell doesn't talk down to her audience—she gives them a smart, fast-paced heist story with real stakes and a crew you actually want to root for.

The 1920s Manhattan setting is a huge win. It's historically rich without being a slog, and the period details (bootlegging, speakeasies, the changing city) add texture without overwhelming the plot. Vita is a great protagonist—resourceful and loyal without being a Mary Sue.

Yes, the villains are villains. They swindle, they threaten, there's mention of murder. But this is a middle-grade adventure novel, not a true crime podcast. It's handled with the right tone for the age group. If your kid can handle Harry Potter or Percy Jackson, they'll be fine here.

The emotional core—a granddaughter fighting to make things right for her grandfather—gives the story real heart. It's not just about the heist; it's about love, justice, and what we owe the people who've cared for us. That's the kind of story that sticks with kids long after they've finished the book.