hillaryvillagers

The Mystery of the Emeralds

Kathryn Kenny

Illustrations by Paul Frame

Originally published decades ago, the “Trixie Belden” series is once again in print. In the fourteenth book in the series, Trixie finds a century-old letter in her family’s attic. The letter contains details about a hidden emerald necklace. Trixie and the rest of her Bob-White club decide to search for the necklace, and their investigation leads them to Cliveden, Virginia. After finding a clue in an antique locket, the amateur detectives discover a secret tunnel between two plantation houses where they find the hidden necklace. This story may be read independent of other books in this series because it is a fresh mystery and every character is introduced to the reader. The inclusion of historic landmarks in Kenny’s novel is interesting as well as educational. This work of fiction is a safe choice because it offers a clean alternative to current risqué material that is readily accessible to children. Trixie inspires youngsters to strive for success.

BIBLIO: 2006 (orig. 1965), Random House Children’s Books, Ages 8 to 14, $6.99.

REVIEWER: Mary Jo Edwards

FORMAT: Middle Reader

ISBN: 0-375-83054-5

ISBN: 0-375-93054-X

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