The Unexplained Disappearance of Mars Patel – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

The Unexplained Disappearance of Mars Patel

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

podcast

89%

WISE Score

A legitimately good mystery podcast performed by kids for kids—think Goonies meets Stranger Things, but make it audio and age-appropriate.

The Unexplained Disappearance of Mars Patel

podcast

Clean

89%

WISE Score

A legitimately good mystery podcast performed by kids for kids—think Goonies meets Stranger Things, but make it audio and age-appropriate.

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Screenwise Verdict

This is one of those rare kids' podcasts that actually delivers on quality. The voice acting is shockingly good for kid performers, the mystery is genuinely engaging (adults are binge-listening too), and it hits that sweet spot of being suspenseful without being scary.

The 'kids going missing' premise is handled with care—it's more Nancy Drew than true crime, more adventure than anxiety-inducing. If your kid can handle Stranger Things vibes but needs age-appropriate content, this nails it.

Perfect for road trips, quiet time, or as a screen-free alternative that doesn't feel like punishment. The serialized format means they'll actually want to keep listening, which is a win for building sustained attention. Bonus: it might inspire them to try their own storytelling or voice acting.

Age Fit

Solidly aimed at 8-12 year olds, though younger kids (6-7) with experience handling mild suspense will likely enjoy it too, especially if listening with a parent. Teens might age out around 13-14 unless they're into audio dramas or nostalgic for middle-grade adventure.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

A scripted mystery adventure performed by middle-grade kids that models friendship, cooperation, and problem-solving. Mars and his friends band together to solve mysteries, emphasizing teamwork and loyalty. The tone is age-appropriate with no inappropriate content, and the pacing is engaging without being chaotic. The kid-performed-for-kids approach creates an authentic, emotionally healthy listening experience.

Imaginative

This is a highly original audio drama that blends mystery, sci-fi, and adventure in a format that invites kids to visualize and imagine the story world. The concept of missing kids, a mysterious tech billionaire, and a school called Pruitt Prep creates an intriguing mystery that sparks curiosity. Described as 'Goonies meets Spy Kids meets Stranger Things for 8-12 year olds,' it encourages active listening and creative thinking. The serial format keeps kids engaged and theorizing between episodes.

Safe

As a kids' podcast, it's designed for family listening with no explicit content, profanity, or mature themes. The mystery involves missing kids which could create mild tension, but it's handled in an age-appropriate way for the target audience. No concerning safety issues around ads, monetization, or inappropriate content. The 'disappearance' theme is the main consideration—some younger or more sensitive kids might find the premise mildly unsettling, but it's within the bounds of typical middle-grade mystery adventure.

Enriching

Goes beyond pure entertainment by incorporating problem-solving, critical thinking, and mystery-solving skills. The show includes 'interesting factoids' and encourages kids to follow clues and make connections. The serialized format builds anticipation and patience. Kids hear peers their age performing complex characters, which can be inspiring. The sci-fi elements introduce concepts about technology and innovation in an accessible way. Strong voice acting from kid performers demonstrates what's possible with dedication and skill.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

High-quality production with talented kid voice actors who actually sound like real kids, not annoying caricatures
Engaging serialized mystery that keeps kids (and adults) hooked and theorizing between episodes
Models friendship, teamwork, and problem-solving as Mars and friends investigate missing classmates
Encourages active listening and imagination in a screen-free format—perfect for car rides or quiet time
Even adults on Reddit admit they're hooked, which means it's genuinely well-written and not just kid-pandering fluff

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What to Watch For

The premise involves kids going missing, which might unsettle younger or more anxious listeners—preview first if your kid is sensitive
It's serialized, so once they start, they'll want to binge the whole thing (not necessarily a bad problem to have)
Free version includes ads; ad-free early access requires a GZM Shows subscription

Conversation Starters

"What do you think is really happening to the missing kids? What are your theories about Oliver Pruitt?"
"If you were Mars, what would you do differently to solve the mystery?"
"The kids in the show have to work together even when they disagree—have you ever had to do that with friends?"
"What would a school like Pruitt Prep be like? Would you want to go there?"

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