Berserkers

Gr 4-6–Below the quaint town of Norse Ridge, MN, a seemingly everlasting cave system holds secrets, treasures, and swine. Sixth graders Danny, Dolly, Mulch, and Amazon Shawn embark on a risky venture to find their beloved, possibly abducted history teacher Mr. Lindquist and some treasure. A dastardly plot to uncover the secrets and treasures of the caves unfolds at the hands of a would-be explorer from Spain and a principal from a rival school, who may be responsible for Mr. Lindquist’s abduction. Thanks to a missing girl, her pigs, and a ­flying red sports car, these kids just might make it out alive. Short chapters and a ­fourth-wall-breaking narrator make this expedition an easy but fun read. Readers will enjoy the escapades of these sixth graders creating lasting memories and learning some hard lessons along the way. Larson combines Norse mythology, Spanish history, and small-town Minnesota lore to create an adventure with a modern-day Goonies feel. Characters are distinguished by build and hair color; additional description is minimal.