Author: Kristin L. Gray
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Reading Level: 4th grade and up
Six girls are invited to spend the night at Amelia Earhart’s childhood home. Little do they know they will end up in the middle of a robbery!
When 11-year-old Amelia, nicknamed Millie, gets to the home of the famous aviator, she stumbles upon an incredible artifact: the goggles Earhart wore on her solo flight across the Atlantic. She knows that 2 museums are vying for the privilege of displaying these googles. However, in just the space of a few minutes, the goggles go missing. With a blizzard raging outside and a house full of suspicious characters, it is up to the six girls to find who has stolen the goggles before morning. Soon, fingers are pointing in all directions, and someone falls strangely ill. Suddenly, a fun night of scavenger hunts and sweets takes a nosedive and the girls aren’t sure who to trust.
A quirky, funny, cozy, fast paced mystery – great for middle school and jr. high readers.
- Is the book well written? Did the story draw you in and make you want to keep reading? Yes, this is a very engaging book with enough twists and turns to keep readers glued to the page.
- Are the characters well developed? Are they realistic and will students be able to relate to them? Yes, Millie is an authentic 11 year old struggling with her mother’s desertion of her family. The author accurately portrays Millie’s hurt and confusion with this as a subplot to the mystery. The other girls are also realistically portrayed with their different personalities and behaviors that many readers will relate to. The friendships that develop between the girls are endearing and seem true to life.
- Is the language appropriate and wholesome? Yes. One instance of “thank heavens” and a few “darn”.
- Does the book present a positive role model? There are several positive role models throughout the story. The adults are mostly supporting characters to the story but they are presented respectfully and treat each other and the girls with care and respect.
- Does this book promote any lifestyle or belief system contrary to the teachings of Scripture? No. Part of the subplot is Millie’s missing mother. There is a reference to mom’s new boyfriend but it is presented as a disappointing fact and not something to be encouraged. Millie is fascinated by Ameliea Earhart because her mother is also an aviator. This story, subtly but realistically, shows the hurt and problems caused by parents who leave their families. The friendships that develop between the girls, who quickly learn to treat each other respectfully even when suspicions arise also shows the value of loving others.
The Amelia Six can be purchased at Amazon.
As an Amazon Affiliate I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase this book using the link above. Thank you!
