Danger Down the Nile

Starred review from November 25, 2013
The Kidds aren’t alright, in this rousing new adventure series from the ever-popular Patterson. When the Kidd siblings discover their sea-faring, treasure-seeking parents are missing, they must take to the high seas to track them down—and dodge a few pirates along the way. All in the name of fun, narrator Bryan Kennedy digs deep and lets loose to create a wildly entertaining listening experience that will appeal to adventure fans both young and old. Kennedy’s character interpretations are layered and colorful from start to finish; each new addition to the plot is as captivating and engaging as the last. And Kennedy’s youthful tone adds a degree of innocence to the story, making it all the more fun and lighthearted. Ages 8–12. A Little, Brown hardcover.

Determined to find their missing father and to secure the release of their kidnapped mother, the four Kidd kids travel to Africa seeking King Solomon's Mines and any clues that might help reunite their family. Alas, chances for success seem slim in spite of Tommy's optimism, Storm's photographic memory, and Beck and Bick's bravery in the face of danger. Adversaries seeking to thwart the four young explorers abound. Even some of their allies turn out to be their greatest opponents. Thankfully, a coded video message arrives from their mother at just the right time. In spite of losing their beloved boat, the Kidds are back in business with new contacts, new gadgets and, unfortunately, new villains. Short chapters, copious illustrations, and a rollicking, nonstop plot will keep readers eager to find out what the next twist might be. But it is the fiercely loyal Kidds and a healthy dose of humor that make this fun-filled adventure series stand out. The forthcoming third volume in the Kidd's adventure is set in China, and it promises to be filled with more danger, more espionage, more plot twists and of course more snack cakes. It's hard to imagine the adventure-loving reader who wouldn't be hooked by this series. (Adventure. 8-12) COPYRIGHT(1) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.