We found a good 'un

I'm practicing my pirate speech.

Because we found a new book for boys third grade and up that we think is "really adventurous and it was awesome because you just have to keep on reading." (from Calvin)



The High-Sky Adventures of Blue Jay the Pirate by Scott Nash.
The writing is great and the adventures are solid. Plus there are animals.


Now, I'd like to share a conversation I recently had with Shaemus.

Shaemus: "Mom, do you know why I like mysteries so much?"

Me, very excited because this seemed like a revelatory moment: "No, Shaemie, why?"

Shaemus: "I don't know either!"

With that kind of depth in mind, I would like to share three great mystery series especially good for boys, one for younger kids (5-6), one for older kids (6-8), and one for even older kids, (I don't know, say 9-up).

The High-Rise Private Eyes series by Cynthia Rylant


Nate the Great by Marjorie Sharmat (I know, you probably know about this one, but Shaemus loves it.)


Chasing Vermeer and its two sequels by Blue Balliet

I really loved this series. I was pretty sucked in, and I think even those kids who don't "love" mysteries would love it too.

Any other mystery suggestions???