Nooks & Crannies - by Jessica Lawson (Paperback)

About the Book

Eleven-year-old Tabitha Crum, whose parents were just about to abandon her, is invited to the country estate of a wealthy countess along with five other children and told that one of them will become her heir.

Book Synopsis

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory meets Clue when six children navigate a mansion full of secrets--and maybe money--in this "delightful gem" (School Library Journal, starred review) with heart.

Sweet, shy Tabitha Crum, the neglected only child of two parents straight out of a Roald Dahl book, doesn't have a friend in the world--except for her pet mouse, Pemberley, whom she loves dearly. But on the day she receives one of six invitations to the country estate of wealthy Countess Camilla DeMoss, her life changes forever.

Upon the children's arrival at the sprawling, possibly haunted mansion, it turns out the countess has a very big secret--one that will change their lives forever.

Then the children beginning disappearing, one by one. So Tabitha takes a cue from her favorite detective novels and, with Pemberley by her side, attempts to solve the case and rescue the other children...who just might be her first real friends.

Review Quotes

"In the grand tradition of Roald Dahl. . . . A plucky amateur detective, secret passages, exaggerated characters, concealed identities, and dastardly villains equal a swell mystery."-- "Kirkus Reviews"

"Original, engaging, and funny.... The writing is beautiful, expertly capturing all the suspense, hope, and love in the story.... A delightful gem that will fly off the shelves."-- "School Library Journal (STARRED REVIEW)"

"Packed with the delicious elements--hidden passages, unexplained noises, suspicious servants--of a traditional British mystery, Lawson's (The Actual and Truthful Adventures of Becky Thatcher) story, set in 1907 England, will keep readers engagingly puzzled throughout its multilayered twists and tangles....Well thought-out and deftly executed, Lawson's novel will appeal to a wide audience."-- "Publishers Weekly (STARRED REVIEW)"

"A compelling puzzle, vividly drawn characters, and a clever and capable young detective."-- "Booklist (STARRED REVIEW)"