Are you looking for a new and exciting series for your elementary age child? Does your child love reading mysteries or learning about the mysterious world we live in? Is your child a graphic novel fan? If the answer is yes to any or all of the above then the Three Rivers Public Library has a great new series for them to enjoy. Top Secret Graphica Mysteries is a new series that makes learning about the wonders around us fun. Each book brings us the same main characters and a different mystery to research and explore.
Let’s meet the main characters. Edward Icarus Stein, known as “Einstein,” loves science and strives to live up to live up to his nickname. Einstein’s greatest invention so far is the Virtual Visor that allows the group to pursue many different adventures from the safety of home. The visors simulate locations and experiences based upon uploaded facts and other data. “Spacey Tracy” Lee is a straight-A student who loves gymnastics and the cello. Tracy is trying to be more mature and lose the nickname. Clarita Gonzales wants to be an adventurous archaeologist. She is a tomboy who plays soccer and is into martial arts. Her interest in archaeology is an asset to the group. “Freaky Frank” Phillips got his nickname because of his uncanny “extra senses.” Frank always seems to know when someone is lying or up to no good. He is always up for adventure with his friends.
Each book in the series covers a different adventure and mystery that the four friends learn about and try to solve. In the book Casebook: Atlantis the friends share the story of Atlantis and the different research that has been done through the years on whether or not it exists. Casebook: The Bermuda Triangle deals with the different disappearances and possible causes. In Casebook: Bigfoot the group goes on an adventure through the woods to find out if Bigfoot is alive or if the sightings are false. Casebook: Ghosts explores spirits and the different reasons that could explain these strange phenomena. Casebook: The Loch Ness Monster describes the story of “Nessie” and the many sightings that surround her and possible explanations of what she could be. Casebook: UFOs and Alien Encounters describes Roswell, alien abductions, alien encounters and UFO sightings. In Casebook: Vampires and Casebook: Werewolves the team explores different tales these creatures and seeks the truth behind the myths.
At the end of each book there is a fact file, a find out for yourself guide, and web sites that you can visit to learn more about each mystery. The fantastic images are done in bright bold colors that capture the attention of many young readers. Reviewed by Michelle, Three Rivers Public Library