Written by Blue Ballett
Illustrated by Brett Helquist & Cover Design by Marijka Kostiw
SUMMARY:
Scholastic Inc. published this 254-page mystery paperback in 2005. Chicago middle school students Petra Andalee and Calder Pillay, who don’t hang out with each other too much, are brought together by a string of strange incidents. Soon afterwards, a priceless Vermeer painting is mysteriously stolen. Petra & Calder team up to find assorted clues around town. Calder’s best friend, Froggie, disappears and can only send messages that must be decoded. It’s up to these two kids to solve a baffling crime by deducing hints in this book’s illustrations.
REVIEW:
If you enjoy the subject matter, it’s a great time reading this book. This reviewer’s advice is to find the three people in the book, who each have a letter. Clearly, this book is meant for ages 10 and up.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
The author provides acknowledgements and an illustrated story map key. The author further explains what pentominoes and how the illustrator has included a hidden message for readers. The interactive After Words feature consists of: short biographies and questions-and-answers of the author and illustrator; “Create Your Own Secret Code;” “Make Your Own Pentominoes;” Brett Helquist’s “How I Draw;” a “What is It?” game; “Ways of Seeing” offers tips on appreciating artwork; and “Chasing Down a Vermeer” offers advice on seeking out his paintings. The author ends with a nine-page preview of Chasing Vermeer’s sequel: The Wright 3.
JAYNA’S ODD MOON RATING: 7½ Stars
