Review: Gripping mystery
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 01 15, 2014
Kevin Chandler and the case of the missing dogs.This is a simple easy to read and follow crime/mystery for the younger reader. The main character Kevin is a likeable hero and his enemies Dylan and Bill Butcher, are presented as suitably cruel and cold-hearted villains. Amy sets the scene of a typical suburban family well with good sensory descriptions that make the reader feel as if they are living the story with the characters.When neighbours dogs go missing Kevin and his best friend Ben, decide to find out who is taking them. Of course they point the finger at the bullying Dylan and set out to bring him to justice.However, not all is at it seems and when the point of view switches to Dylan, the reader gets an insight into his life and personality and our feelings towards him do change. I liked this twist in the tale and rather than it being a one-dimensional whodunit, the story becomes deeper and more satisfying to read than most adventure tales for this age group.Amy creates believable characters with naturalistic dialogue and tells the story in clear detail so that you know what is happening at all times. Some lovely physical descriptions help to make the locations and characters come alive.There is lots of action and drama to keep the reader wanting to carry on and with a satisfying ending; this story is just great for an easy read. I recommend this book to anyone, young or old, who enjoys a good mystery action adventure.