Book Reviews by Lynn

This is a fantastic mystery story for middle grade children from ages 9 to 12. I loved it!

Jeff Douglas is an inquisitive and courageous young man. He may be only eleven, but he makes a pretty good detective! I liked him very much! When he goes to stay with his Great Grandfather, he doesn't realise what adventures await him!

Having previously read Intruders on Battleship Island, I was eager to read the next book in the series. The story took me into an adventure filled with history. As I am not American, the history of the slave trade and the "railroad" to freedom was extremely interesting to me. I loved how the story is woven together with a journal and a mysterious map to the Secret Graveyard - where the slaves met with sympathizers to help them escape. However, I did find that the history aspect of the story outweighed the mystery part. I would have loved to had more danger or action in this tale, to give it some "OOMPH!", but I am an adult, so what do I know! Children may enjoy this tale for what it is, an exciting adventure into history. I really enjoyed the story! I was hooked from the first page! Slavery was, and is, a terrible issue, and is still relevant today. But, the modern slave traders are extremely more sophisticated and sneaky than their predecessors, mores the pity!
I am now looking forward to reading the third book in the series, The Mystery of the Wragg Swamp. 

Jerrye Sumrall has written an exciting mystery series for children that will keep them entertained and educated. She is obviously a lover of history, as it shines through her work. Her writing style is fast paced, but easy enough for young readers to read on their own.

I highly recommend this book (and series) to children between the ages of 9 to 12 who love mysteries and adventure. - Lynn Worton