Parents' Guide to

Missing on Superstition Mountain

By Darienne Stewart, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 8+

Suspenseful series opener leaves much unresolved for sequel.

Book Elise Broach Mystery 2011
Missing on Superstition Mountain Poster Image

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What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

Chicago boys Simon, Henry, and Jack Barker move to Arizona, where ominous Superstition Mountain dominates their small town. Many people have died or disappeared looking for a rumored gold mine there, and the boys' parents (and every other adult they meet) forbid them to go near the place. But when their cat bolts up the mountain, they chase after her and make a grisly discovery. The boys and their neighbor, Delilah, begin to dig into the mountain's fascinating mysteries -- but someone seems determined to keep them away, no matter the cost.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated
Inspired by the history and legends surrounding the noted landmark outside Phoenix, AZ, MISSING ON SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN is a promising start to a mystery series. Author Elise Broach weaves a classic, satisfying adventure tale complete with sinister grownups, lost treasure, and perilous mishaps. Black-and-white illustrations by Antonio Javier Caparo enhance the spooky vibe.
The first book resolves very little, introducing many intriguing characters and plotlines only to set them aside, presumably for more attention later in the series. The anticlimactic ending's a letdown after such an enjoyable journey, but patient readers will eagerly follow this quartet of adventurers in the next installment, Treasure on Superstition Mountain. They may also want to read one of the many classic adventures mentioned in the story.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the children's forbidden visits to the mountain. Are they justified in breaking the rules? What would you do in the same situation?

  • Do you think a story that ends with so many unanswered questions is still satisfying? Why do you think mysteries are so popular with kids?

  • How might the story be different if the Barker boys had easy access to the Internet?

Book Details

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