Has Anyone Seen Jessica Jenkins?

Readers not yet ready for teen thrillers should warm to this unlikely band of new friends who solve this easy-to-read "scientific" mystery with no adult intervention.
--Kirkus Reviews

Kessler (the Emily Windsnap books) returns to familiar themes of uncovering hidden secrets and the value of friendship. Geography class is dragging on when 13-year-old Jessica Jenkins is called out for nodding off. But what she didn't notice--and her best friend Izzy did--is that part of Jessica's arm disappeared while she was snoozing. Thus begins a tale that's part mystery, part science experiment, and a big leap of faith. Through trial, error, and coincidence, Jessica and Izzy learn that Jessica can make herself invisible, thanks to a rose quartz necklace given to her by a family friend, the midwife who helped deliver her. The plot becomes even more labyrinthine as circumstances reveal that a secret serum reacting with various crystals has imbued other kids with powers like levitation and mind-reading. Though the suggestion of supernatural or magical elements intrigues, the strained explanations Kessler uses to ground her story slow her storytelling and diminish the book's lightness of tone. A somewhat ambiguous conclusion hints at potential additional adventures for this newly formed group of friends/superheroes. Ages 8-12. Agent: Catherine Clarke, Felicity Brian Literary Agency. (Feb.)

Copyright 2014 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 4-6--Eighth grade seems pretty normal to Jessica Jenkins until the day her best friend Izzy tells her she started going invisible during geography class. The two girls work hard to find out how and why this is happening and in the process discover that there may be other kids who have developed superpowers. The explanation for these powers is science-based and surprisingly believable, considering the fantasy aspects of the story. Jessica and her newfound allies struggle to come to grips with the changes not only in their own capabilities but in their relationships with each other and those around them. It all comes to a head when Jessica and her friends discover that the source of their powers are threatened. The mix of kids from different backgrounds and social groups makes for an interesting look at the challenges of crossing cultural and social barriers. A light, fun read that is sure to be popular among fans of Kessler's other works, including the "Emily Windsnap" and "Philippa Fisher" series (both Candlewick).--"Heidi Grange, Summit Elementary School, Smithfield, UT" Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Readers not yet ready for teen thrillers should warm to this unlikely band of new friends who solve this easy-to-read "scientific" mystery with no adult intervention.
—Kirkus Reviews

The mix of kids from different backgrounds and social groups makes for an interesting look at the challenges of crossing cultural and social barriers. A light, fun read that is sure to be popular among fans of Kessler's other works including the "Emily Windsnap" and "Philippa Fisher" series.
—School Library Journal

The suggestion of supernatural or magical elements intrigues.
—Publishers Weekly

Kessler combines elements of adventure, mystery, and fantasy, incorporating themes of friendship into a fun middle grade novel. Teachers will find it to be an engaging read-aloud.
—School Library Connection

Anyone who ever dreamed of being more than ordinary will love this slightly super story.
—Discovery Girls