The Mona Lisa Vanishes by Nicholas Day

I’m usually terrible about reading nonfiction. I need a story to keep my interest. But this wonderful book is nonfiction that reads like fiction. The story is excellently written with a narrative that kept my attention–best of all, it’s all true. Day’s book tells the story of the creation of the Mona Lisa as well as some history about Leonardo Da Vinci. It also includes the mystery of the theft of the painting and what made it the famous work it is today.

This is a great read for its intended middle grade audience, but a good one for all sorts of ages. This is a must have for my middle school library and one I will recommend frequently.

Recommended ages–10 and up

What the River Knows by Isabel Ibanez

As part of upper class society in late 19th century Argentina, Inez Olivera feels restricted. Six months out of every year her parents visit Egypt, but Inez is never allowed to join them. When Inez receives word of her parents’ deaths, she is determined to find out what happened. Defying cultural restrictions, she travels to Egypt and demands answers from her archeologist uncle. But her uncle keeps trying to send her home, and it takes all of Inez’s courage and creativity to outwit him and his handsome assistant. However, when Inez follows them to their archeological dig, she finds herself in much more danger than she intended.

What the River Knows is an exciting read with a little something for everyone. The story is a mixture of historical fiction, mystery, with a bit of magic and romance thrown in. It story feels a little like Indian Jones with some Death on the Nile on the side. The characters are intriguing and tween/teen readers will enjoy the story. Good entertainment for lovers of fantasy and a cozy mystery.

Recommended ages–12 and up

Winterborne Home for Vengeance and Valor by Ally Carter

Eleven-year-old April never stays in homes for long, but she knows her mom is coming for her…eventually. But when April joins the kids at Winterborne Home, things are different–especially when April discovers the long lost Winterborne heir, hiding in the cellar. Soon unexpected danger appears and April and the other children have to use all their resources to keep Gabriel Winterborne alive WITHOUT letting any of the other adults know he is back.

This lighthearted middle grade story has so many elements for readers to enjoy: a set of misfit kids, an old family mystery, danger and intrigue, and spy gadgets. Ally Carter displays her usual style of humor and mystery, but this time for a younger audience. This is a great read for tweens of all types.

Recommended ages–10 and up