The Emerald Shore

Gr 4–6—For 10 months Lucy and the ship's crew have sought to "outrun the threat of the family curse" on a voyage which has taken them from around the world. They wind up on the shores of Ireland as the third book in the series begins. The crew of the Lucy P. Simmons makes it to the Emerald Isle on the quest to find the treasure to break the curse forever and find Marni's son along the way. Once at their destination, the crew separates, some going to the mainland; the captain, Addie and the orphaned siblings to Addie's village. Lucy and her dog, her aunt Pru, Grady, and the mysterious Marni stay together, meeting interesting people and having adventures at breakneck speed as they seek the clues with, of course, the help of magic. Each character—including argumentative face cards—plays an important role in the quest set in the early 20th century. Evildoers try to intercept them as they follow clues across the rich, diverse Irish landscape. Magic and a magical creature help Lucy along the way to the satisfying conclusion during which all questions about each character are answered. As in the previous books, the pace is fast and action-packed with just a hint of romance for the protagonist. Although Lucy and the other seafarers find family and a home, their new ships—paid for by the found treasure—are sure to bring future voyages and escapades.—Maria B. Salvadore, formerly at District of Columbia Public Library