Common Sense Media Review
Exciting but flawed murder mystery for tweens.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
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Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 2 parent reviews
Based on 21 kid reviews
Kids say this book is an exciting and well-written mystery that expertly combines elements of crime, suspense, and various mature themes like swearing and violence. Despite some parents' concerns about its content, young readers appreciate the gripping storyline and engaging characters, deeming it suitable for mature kids around ages 10 to 15.
- engaging story
- mature themes
- gripping mystery
- well written
- suitable for older kids
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Rob likes to hang out in his cherry tree, especially now that his family is obsessed with his sister's wedding. He can get away and hide, but has a good view and can eavesdrop. One of the things he can see is the house of his nasty old neighbor, Mrs. Calloway. He even has a clear view of her when she falls out of her first-floor window and dies hanging from the branch of his tree by the strap of her binoculars.
Rob is sure he saw the hand of a man push her out the window, but no one will believe him -- or even listen to him. But someone is listening. Even when he is shot at and nearly poisoned, no one pays attention. But the murderer is after Rob -- and he has no one to rely on but himself.
Is It Any Good?
The first thing your kids will notice is that this is an exciting, suspenseful, edge-of-the-seat thriller with a climax that will keep them glued to the pages. The first thing you will notice is that this all sounds awfully familiar, starting with Aesop. But no matter -- it's good fun. After they finish, though, your kids may have a delayed, "Wait a minute ..." reaction, as they realize the plot makes little sense.
But even the gaping plot holes can be an opportunity for you to help your kids be more critical readers. This book can help them learn to go beyond merely accepting what the author tells them.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the way the family treats Rob. Why aren't they more concerned about him? Why won't anyone listen to him? Why are they so obsessed with the wedding? Also, discussion of the flaws in the plot can sharpen critical reading skills.
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Mystery
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Simon & Schuster
- Publication date : July 1, 1998
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 181
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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