The Medusa Plot

Gr 5–7—This subseries starring Amy and Dan Cahill starts off with a bang. Powerful members of their family are being kidnapped all around the world. The only attempt gone wrong was when the siblings managed to outsmart and outfight their enemies due to new techniques they learned to keep themselves safe. Soon, they discover that the Vespers, an ancient family with a long-standing feud against theirs, have taken their loved ones and will start killing them if their demands are not met. Amy and Dan realize that the clue hunt is starting all over again, but with much more at stake. A bit of background information is included for those new to the series, but nothing that slows the pace. Familiar characters and situations are intermingled with new dangers. Impossible tasks are asked of the siblings, but they are not alone this time as they are receiving help from other branches of the family working together. Action, adventure, and danger abound. And, of course, a cliff-hanger ending will leave readers stunned and wanting more. Without a doubt, if the first "39 Clues" series had kids racing to finish the books, this one is a must-purchase.—Mariela Siegert, Westfield Middle School, Bloomingdale, IL