Max Starling lives happily with his actor parents in their home connected to the Starling Theater, but a strange invitation changes everything. William and Mary Starling, Max's parents, are invited to India to spend several months with the Maharajah of Kashmir. Max intends to go with them, but when he goes to meet his parents aboard The Flower of Kashmir, his parents have disappeared and no one remembers the ship or his parents. Twelve-year-old Max is forced to find a way to support himself while solving the mystery of his missing parents.
As he looks for work, Max stumbles onto several chances to find lost things for people. He calls himself a Solutioneer with a new disguise for every job. Max also meets engaging characters and helps some friends solve mysteries of their own. This whimsical mystery is filled with endearing characters and a twisting plotline that is fun for kid readers and their parents. The story is perfect for reading on your own or reading aloud and, although most of the story resolves, the author intends at least one sequel.
Recommended ages--9 and up