Secrets of Shakespeare's Grave

August 13, 2012
In a prologue set in 1616 on the island of Le Mont Saint-Michel, publisher Miles Letterford secures a mysterious treasure, and Hicks establishes an aura of old-fashioned mystery in his entertaining debut. To ensure both the integrity of the publishing house and his family’s well being, Miles ordained rules of governance for future generations and left clues in a grandiose portrait regarding a treasure available in time of need. The present-day story, which opens in the U.S., takes place between Thanksgiving, when 12-year-old Colophon realizes that a relative seeks to unseat her father as Letterford president, and Christmas Eve, when her father must prove his ability to sustain the publishing house. After prevailing on her 15-year-old brother, Case, to help their father sign up a trio of eccentric authors, Colophon enlists her oddball adult cousin Julian on a wild treasure hunt that takes her to London. The narrative alternates between Colophon and Case’s transatlantic adventures and the conniving shenanigans of the power-seeking relative. Geyer’s ink
illustrations convey both humor and thrills, while a partial resolution sets the stage for another mystery. Ages 9–12. Agent: Steven Chudney, the Chudney Agency.

September 1, 2012

Gr 4-6-This curiously old-fashioned mystery involves attempts by teenager Case and his younger sister, Colophon, to help save their family's publishing business. The extremely confusing beginning melds newspaper articles, events told by people centuries prior, and modern viewpoints. While the tale occurs in 2005, the line drawings contribute to the overall disorientation in the mix of past and present. The story is told from a number of perspectives as the Letterford siblings strive to overcome their mutual loathing and help their father find a way to keep the business afloat. If he cannot accomplish this, the company reverts to ownership by an odious relative. The plot is a bit far-fetched and the mystery is solved in a facile manner. The humor can be slapstick and silly but might appeal to some readers. Because the pacing is fast, this book may be enjoyed by reluctant readers looking for a traditional mystery. The author ends on an enigmatic note, presaging a sequel. One might have wished for more information about Shakespeare, who plays a key role in the whodunit.-B. Allison Gray, Goleta Public Library, CA

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