BOOK REVIEW: UNEXPECTED: 11 MYSTERIOUS STORIES

UNEXPECTED: 11 MYSTERIOUS STORIES

Edited by Laura E. Williams

Scholastic

2006

Available: paperback

      Like the title says, this is a collection of eleven mysterious short stories. What impressed me about this collection is that all of the stories were good. All were well crafted. All had mysterious elements woven into unique stories.  All were fun to read. Instead of me giving away the stories, why not pick up a copy to read.

Target audience: grades 6-8

Mystery /suspense:  very good

Kid appeal: definite

BOOK REVIEW: GUYS READ: THRILLER

GUYS READ: THRILLER

Edited by Jon Scieszka

Scholastic

2011

Available: Hardcopy, paperback, Kindle

    Like the pulp fiction of the 1920s, 30s & 40s, GUYS READ is a collection of mystery/thriller stories written by ten of today's best selling authors. The stories are fast paced and fun to read. All of the main characters are boys. One story is a mini graphic mystery. A couple tales involve ghosts. One story takes place in Somalia with modern day pirates. And what about snakes? Thieves? Thugs? And stolen valuable coins?

     Boys especially will love these high action short stories. They are well crafted and sure to delight even the most reluctant reader.

Target audience: Grades 6-8

Mystery/suspense: edge of your seat
Kid appeal: definite