If you're looking for a book that mixes humor, action, and mystery with a touch of classic detective vibes, The Sherlock Society by James Ponti is a must-read! Published by Aladdin and set to hit shelves on September 3, 2024, this book is perfect for fans of middle-grade mysteries and adventure. From the New York Times bestselling and Edgar Award-winning author James Ponti, this novel introduces us to the engaging world of the Sherlock siblings and their friends as they unravel a decades-old mystery.
Title: The Sherlock Society
Author: James Ponti
Publisher: Aladdin
Release Date: September 3, 2024
Pages: 352
Ages: 8 - 12
About the book:
Siblings Alex and Zoe Sherlock take their last name as inspiration when choosing a
summer job. After all, starting a detective agency has to be better than babysitting
(boring), lawn mowing (sweaty), or cleaning out the attic (boring and sweaty). Their
friends Lina, an avid bookworm, and Yadi, an aspiring cinematographer, join the
enterprise, and Alex and Zoe’s retired reporter grandfather offers up his sweet
aquamarine Cadillac convertible and storage unit full of cold cases.
The group’s first target is the long-lost treasure supposedly hidden near their
hometown Miami. Their investigation into the local doings of famed gangster Al
Capone leads them to a remote island in the middle of the Everglades where they find alarming evidence hinting at corporate corruption.
Together with Grandpa’s know-how and the kids’ intelligence—plus some really slick gadgets—can the Sherlock Society root out the conspiracy?
My Review
Siblings Alex and Zoe Sherlock are looking for a summer job that’s more thrilling than babysitting or lawn mowing. With a last name like Sherlock, it only makes sense to start a detective agency, right? Teaming up with their friends Lina, a book lover, and Yadi, an aspiring cinematographer, the foursome dives into the world of detective work. Lucky for them, their retired reporter grandfather is eager to join in the fun, offering not only his classic aquamarine Cadillac convertible but also his collection of unsolved cold cases. Their first mission? Investigating a long-lost treasure connected to the notorious gangster Al Capone, hidden somewhere near their hometown of Miami.
Plot: Unraveling the Mystery
In The Sherlock Society, the story kicks off with Alex, Zoe, Lina, and Yadi forming their detective agency. The group is determined to solve their first big case: tracking down a hidden treasure linked to Al Capone's dealings in Miami. Their journey takes them to a remote island in the Everglades, where they stumble upon hints of corporate corruption. Ponti masterfully balances the thrill of the hunt with a light-hearted narrative, making it a page-turner that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The mix of modern-day detective work with a hint of historical intrigue makes for a captivating story.
Characters: A Dynamic Detective Crew
The characters are where The Sherlock Society really shines. Alex and Zoe are likable protagonists whose curiosity and determination are contagious. Lina’s book smarts and Yadi’s creative mind add unique perspectives to the group’s investigations, making their dynamic both entertaining and realistic. Their grandfather, with his journalistic background, serves as a fantastic mentor figure, bridging the gap between the kids' enthusiasm and real-world detective skills. This intergenerational team creates a refreshing take on the traditional detective story, appealing to both young readers and those young-at-heart.
Setting: Sun, Sand, and Secrets in Miami
Miami is more than just a backdrop in The Sherlock Society—it’s practically a character in itself. Ponti’s vivid descriptions bring the city to life, from its sun-soaked streets to the mysterious swamps of the Everglades. The contrast between the vibrant city and the eerie, remote island adds a layer of excitement and danger to the story. It’s clear that Ponti has a love for the setting, and he uses it to great effect to enhance the narrative’s tension and charm.
What I Loved About The Sherlock Society
There’s so much to love about this book! My 13-year-old couldn’t put it down, calling it a "page-turner" filled with action. The character development is spot-on, with each member of the Sherlock Society bringing something unique to the table. Their determination to solve the mystery, despite the dangers, makes for a compelling read. Personally, I found the book reminiscent of Ponti’s other series, City Spies, but with a twist that I preferred—shifting the focus from espionage to classic detective work. As a fan of detective stories, I enjoyed this fresh take on a middle-grade mystery.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Young Detectives
The Sherlock Society is a fantastic start to what promises to be an engaging series. James Ponti has done an excellent job of crafting a story that is not only entertaining but also encourages young readers to think critically and follow their curiosity. With its blend of action, humor, and mystery, this book is sure to captivate readers of all ages. If you or a young reader in your life enjoys solving puzzles and embarking on adventures, The Sherlock Society is the perfect addition to your reading list.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Whether you're a long-time fan of James Ponti or new to his work, "The Sherlock Society" is a book that delivers on every level. Grab your magnifying glass and get ready to solve some mysteries! Thank you to Aladdin (Simon & Schuster) for the book and my honest review.
About the author:
JAMES PONTI (he/him/his) is the New York Times bestselling author of four middle grade book series: The Sherlock Society following a group of young detectives; City Spies, about an unlikely squad of five kids from around the world who form an elite MI6 Spy Team; the Edgar Award–winning Framed! series, about a pair of tweens who solve mysteries in Washington, DC; and the Dead City trilogy, about a secret society that polices the undead living beneath Manhattan. His books have appeared on more than fifteen different state award lists, and he is the founder of a writers group known as the Renegades of Middle Grade. James is also an Emmy–nominated television writer and producer who has worked for many networks including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, PBS, History, and Spike TV, as well as NBC Sports. He lives with his family in Orlando, Florida. Find out more at JamesPonti.com.
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