The Becca and the Prisoner's Cross

September 1, 2015

Gr 3-7-Becca has the ability to visit times in the past (uniquely, only in her mind; her body remains firmly in the present). This story takes place in London with a brief excursion to Bletchley Park, the World War II code-breaking facility that shortened the war against the Germans. References to Alan Turing and the Wrens (the female spy decoders) will excite a new generation of problem solvers. Becca meets Nicolaus Copernicus, also a time traveler, in the 1530s and he shares many clues to help Becca and friends Lily, Wade, and Darrell outwit the enemy, the Teutonic Order, in finding the next of 12 relics. This action-packed story will make a great addition to any sci-fi or adventure collection. Narrator Arielle DeLisle's accents are fabulous, and each character stands out with his or her own voice. VERDICT While it is clear that the author intends to continue the series, book 2 ends tidily and readers will feel that many loose ends were tied up.-Suzanne Dix, The Seven Hills School, Cincinnati, OH

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.