Detective Stories For All Ages
As parents, you probably already know that reading books is a great way to engage a child’s mind. But don’t forget that reading is also a great way for you to relax and take time for yourself. Mystery novels are a great way to achieve both goals because they involve you in a search for clues and will keep you reading to find out “whodunit.” Here are just a few suggestions that could satisfy your thirst for thrill:
Donald J. Sobol, author of the Encyclopedia Brown novels, is a great author for juvenile readers. These books are easy to follow and involve younger readers as they attempt to solve the crimes right along with Encyclopedia Brown. Each book has a number of short mysteries included; each story ends right before the solution is revealed, leaving readers to solve the crime based on what they have read. But don’t worry—if your child is stumped, simply flip to the end of the book to reveal the answer!
For young adult readers, two titles spring to mind: Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys, two classic mystery series perfect for young adult detectives. Carolyn Keene writes of Nancy Drew and her friends as they explore hidden staircases and deserted houses in a search for clues that will solve their crimes. Keene’s novels are perfect for young female detectives while Franklin W. Dixon’s tales of the Hardy brothers are great for young male detectives. Like Nancy, the Hardy boys investigate foul play and mysterious happenings that will appeal to any reader.
There are also many great authors that will intrigue and engage adult minds. For example, Patricia Cornwell writes a series about Kay Scarpetta, a medical examiner who is often thrown into dangerous situations while attempting to solve murders and catch criminals. A fun alternative to these serious novels would be the humorous chronicles of Stephanie Plum by Janet Evanovich. This series follows Plum through her work at a bail-bonds agency as she tracks “skips” who often find comical ways to elude recapture. However, if neither of these authors catches your interest, be sure to check with your local library or bookstore for other great novels by authors like Philip Margolin, Lisa Jackson, James Patterson, and many more!!
You can also find information about recently released mystery novels for any age group at the Edgar Awards website. The Edgar Awards honor one author from a group of nominees for outstanding mystery writing; but even if they don’t win, all of these books are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat! To see the most recent winners, visit the above website or inquire at your local library or bookstore for other intriguing mystery suggestions.
