BOOK REVIEW: THE BLACK TOWER

The Black Tower - mystery book review

THE BLACK TOWER (A Herculeah Jones Mystery)

Betsy Byars

Puffan

2006

Available: Paperback, Library binding, Kindle & audible

This a Herculeah Jones Mystery.

When Herculeah's mother asks her to read to a lonely old man paralyzed from a stroke, Herculeah has no idea that she's about to be plunged into a mystery. When she finds out it's Lionus Hunt, who lives in the eerie Hunt mansion, she can't wait to start. Lionus can only communicate by blinking. Once, for yes. Twice, for no. And she just knows he'd say more, if he could. He's chosen a most strange book for her to read to him. It's a sinister tale about a house with a tower much like the one in the Hunt mansion. Is it connected to what he's trying to tell her about? She begins her investigation that leads to an old family feud, missing money and murder.

The story is fast paced, suspenseful and a real page-turner that should delight both boys and girls alike. Full of danger and intrigue with a delightful heroine.

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TARGET AUDIENCE: 4-6 grades

MYSTERY SUSPENCE: tense

KID APPEAL: High