FICTION

The Unbreakable Code

368p. (Book Scavengers: Bk. 2). ebook available. Holt. Apr. 2017. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9781627791168. POP
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Gr 4–6—This second installment leaps in right where the first left off, with middle schoolers Emily and James on the trail of a new coded mystery. Things are heating up as an arsonist called The Phoenix leaves a trail of hidden books and small fires all over San Francisco. While worrying about family finances, figuring out what their teacher Mr. Quisling is up to, taking part in a historical treasure hunt, and planning the school dance, the intrepid heroes have more than enough on their cipher-loving minds. Though the plot stands alone, readers may need to revisit the first book in the series to catch up on necessary exposition. Without the weight of explanation, though, the story speeds satisfyingly along and is, all in all, a successful sequel. Includes supplementary back matter on geographical and historical references.
VERDICT Readers who loved the first volume will find this follow-up even more satisfying. Purchase extra copies where there are fans.

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