Trouble at the Tangerine

McDunn's characters are nicely realized, and the mystery is satisfyingly resolved.

Eleven-year-old Simon Hyde's parents' nomadic lifestyle, and yet another move across the country in their "Vincent Van Go," has made him risk averse. Having lived in 27 places, Simon has made up a fool-proof plan: Code Name Chameleon. Part one is to blend in with his new surroundings, and part two--perhaps the most imperative of the pair--is to not be weird. Though Simon loves collecting rocks and reading fantasy novels, he can't chance revealing his true self, especially since there's been so little stability in his life to begin with. But maybe this time will be different: implementing steps one and two of Operation Rigsby, his new, top-secret scheme, Simon has been researching the best home for his family and has successfully led them to Tangerine Pines. He immediately meets cheery, idiosyncratic neighbors and, upon feeling a spark of "a forever home," enacts step three: "Stay there forever. This was the most important part--and also the most complicated." When his neighbor's necklace is stolen, Simon and his new acquaintance is on the case--and he'll do anything to prolong their stay. In this quiet story of hope, belonging, and adventure, McDunn (When Sea Becomes Sky) presents Simon's sincere worries and charming schemes with a humorous, lighthearted approach. Simon reads as white. Ages 8-11. (Apr.)

Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 3-6--Meet Simon Hyde--he's on a mission to put down permanent roots in Rigby. Simon's usual rules for new towns? "Blend In and Don't Be Weird." But after moving 27 times, as a part of his parents' Hyde Go Seek travel blog, he's tired of always being the new kid. This time, he wants a real home and genuine friends. Trouble is, some jewel thefts at his new apartment complex, Tangerine Pines, are getting in the way of Simon's "Operation Rigby." He has already made friends with local petsitter Amaya and her "arch-nemesis" Calvin Morris, making Rigby feel like the home he has always wanted. But can Simon and his new friends solve the missing jewelry mystery before his parents get spooked, and he finds himself on the move again? Blending elements of mystery and realistic fiction, this title mixes a tight whodunit plot with common middle grade themes, such as growing up, fitting in, and developing friendships. The narrative centers around Simon's quest for a permanent home, but a secondary conflict, the jewel heist, injects intrigue into the plot with each proceeding chapter. With chapters averaging between six-to-nine pages in length and maintaining a balanced level of suspense throughout, this would be an excellent choice for either a beginning of the year read-aloud or as an independent read for young mystery buffs seeking a longer text. VERDICT An excellent purchase for middle grade mystery collections that will be an easy sell for kids and teachers alike.--Louie Lauer

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

A novel full of heart, humor, and honesty. . . . Elliot is an instantly lovable character, and readers will be hooked from the very first chapter. —School Library Journal, starred review, on HONESTLY ELLIOTT

In a droll, engaging, self-effacing, and disarmingly open voice, Elliott narrates his story, providing realistic, firsthand insights into living with ADHD. . . . A refreshingly honest exploration of family and friendship. —Kirkus Reviews, starred review, on HONESTLY ELLIOTT

McDunn has a talent for creating sympathetic characters. . . . This well-paced, heartfelt chapter book offers a lovable main character, a lively supporting cast, and a satisfying conclusion. —Booklist, starred review, on HONESTLY ELLIOTT

McDunn (These Unlucky Stars) offers an affirming and nuanced depiction of empathetic and creative Elliott's experience of ADHD. . . . Elliott's relationship with his father, from whom he craves acceptance despite his dad's failure to acknowledge Elliott's specific challenges, is particularly inspiring as the two work toward openness and understanding. —Publishers Weekly, starred review, on HONESTLY ELLIOTT