Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Plucky heroine uncovers stolen painting in engaging mystery.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
Thirteen-year-old Theo accidentally discovers another painting hiding under one by her artist grandfather. The more she learns about it, the more she suspects it might be an actual Renaissance masterpiece. But if it's genuine, that would only raise a new series of questions, such as how her grandfather came to have it and whether it's stolen. Theo will need the help of the new girl on the block, Bodhi, and a cast of colorful characters to learn the truth about her grandfather's past and where the painting really belongs.
Is It Any Good?
UNDER THE EGG, Laura Marx Fitzgerald's first novel, is a delightful mystery that will please a wide range of readers in elementary and middle school. The vivid, funny writing evokes the sweltering heat of New York in July as the plucky heroine travels all around Manhattan in search of answers. Fitzgerald adeptly keeps the pages turning, revealing the mystery piece by piece. Heroine Theo's quirky and engaging voice is believable, and kids will easily relate to her while finding much to admire.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why works of art such as paintings by Renaissance masters are important. Why should we learn about them today? What can they teach us?
Why are mystery books so popular? What makes a good mystery? What are some of your favorites?
If you found something old that you thought might be valuable, would you try to sell it or would you try to find out more about it first?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Mystery
- Topics : Arts , Friendship , History
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Dial Books
- Publication date : March 18, 2014
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 256
- Available on : Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : ALA Best and Notable Books
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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