Gerald is just a typical kid, looking forward to a vacation on the slopes with his friends. But when a death in the family leaves him stinking rich, his life is changed forever.

His mysterious great aunt Geraldine has left him more than just a tremendous fortune, though. She left him a letter declaring that she has been murdered. It's up to Gerald to figure out  who killed her, before he becomes the next victim! 

This week's book of the week is a mystery, as part of my effort to stretch my students beyond the science fiction and fantasy that they adore (Okay, I love it too). The plot is bursting with action that will firmly put it on the "must have" list for middle grade readers. There is even a touch of the fantastic along the way, which will help it appeal to the firmly fantasy contingent. While some of the miraculous coincidences can be a bit of a stretch, I think kids will enjoy the adventures of the resourceful Gerald and the friends he makes along the way. Give it a shot! 

Visit the author's webpage here!http://www.richardnewsome.com/richardnewsome/Home.html


Reviewer's Note: I was provided a copy of the book to read by the publisher - Walden Pond Press. They have a great Twitter feed! @WaldenPondPress 

This week's Book of the Week is funny, mysterious, and sure to please students with a hankering for English humor. There is even a sequel! (It's on my "to read" list). 

"Wanted Immediately: energetic governess for three lively children."

The adventures of Penelope Lumley, an orphan seeking employment, begin with this simple ad. Penelope is a recent graduate of Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females. She's smart, resourceful, and ready for anything. Or so she thinks. 

Penelope follows a strange howling noise to the barn, intent on helping the injured animals she expects to find. Instead, she meets her new young charges, huddled together and yipping at one another. Having been raised in the wild, she needs to teach them all the things they need to know to be "civilized". This includes learning how to put on trousers, not chase squirrels up a tree, read Latin, and dance the schottische. 

Mystery surrounds the children, and her new home, as she tries to uncover their origin. Why did her employer adopt the children, and why did he invite his hunting buddies to a Christmas gala event to meet them? Join Penelope in her adventures!

Literary references and a wry sense of humor made this book an enjoyable read for me and my students.