Mystery in Mayan Mexico

January 1, 2015

Gr 4-6-Eddie Red is in prison. In Mexico. With his best friend Jonah whose new nickname is "El frijol" because of his chronic jumpiness. How did these two almost seventh-graders end up here? Well, it's a long and crazy story. It starts with Eddie's mom taking her family along to a conference in Mexico and involves a stolen ancient mask, a gang called las plumas, an unsolved bank robbery, plastic key chain versions of Mayan deities dabbed with peanut butter for good luck and, of course, dangerous amateur detective work. The boys team up with a local girl named Julia who sets them straight about the Mexican stereotypes and helps them crack the case through her dad's connections. All three kids are realistic and likable, and although the plot twists may strain some reader's suspension of disbelief, they're fast paced enough to keep those who crave adventure turning pages. Refreshingly, this book features an African American protagonist. Purchase for libraries where the first book or other plot-driven mystery series are popular-and be prepared to add future installments.-Gesse Stark-Smith, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

cummins007 - I read Eddie Red, Undercover: Mystery in Mayan Mexico by: Marcia Wells. This amazing story is about a boy named Edward, known as Eddie Red when under cover. Edward has to find out who stole a gold mask from his friend in Mayan Mexico. Eddie is a cop who can draw lifelike photos and has photographic memory. Eddie and his friends search pyramids, museums and homes to find out who stole the mask and framed his father. Out of 1-3, I rate this book a 3. I rate this book a 3 out of 3 because it is action packed with a few twists. One criticism is that this book is a sequel, and unless you read the first book the beginning can be confusing. I think this is realistic fiction, even if it's a small stretch. I think it's realistic fiction because it's about a family who goes to Mexico and tours Mayan Mexico while his father is framed. I think if you enjoy Mexican history, like adventure, and love crime you would enjoy this fascinating book. An internal conflict occurs when Eddie's father is framed and Eddie has to fight himself and say he'll find who framed his father. This also has many external conflicts, man vs man when Eddie fights a thief, man vs society when the government blames Eddie's father, etc.