The Secret Box
Gr 5–8—Jax Malone is a 12-year-old tomboy with a thirst for adventure and an inquisitive mind. Ethan is her younger, quieter, nerdy cousin who is just along for the ride. When a mysterious gift appears on Jax's 12th birthday, Jax's mother quickly tries to hide it. What happens next is a string of events that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. Great Aunt Juniper sent the box, a great aunt Jax didn't even know existed. After a few failed attempts at opening it, Jax and Ethan enlist the help of Ethan's older brother Tyler, a gamer who loves to win at anything, and a wild, crazy and even dangerous road trip adventure begins. Jax and her cousins quickly find out that the box was not really a present after all but a call for help. Ringwald creates a cast of characters that are relatable to any middle-grade child; Jax could be any smart, sassy tween in any school. The chapters are told in alternating voices between Jax and Ethan, using both points of view. Ethan's chapter even starts with fun real facts. This is a great read for reluctant readers or for anyone who loves adventure, mystery, or a touch of magic or who is curious in nature, for, as Jax says… "Curiosity may have killed the cat but I was no cat."—Joanne Albano, Commack Public Library, NY