Cam Jansen and the Joke House Mystery

Gr 2–5—Jennifer Jansen is better known as Cam, a nickname short for "camera," which refers to her photographic memory. With a simple "click," Cam can recall everything around her, a tremendous asset in solving mysteries for which she is known. In this adventure, Cam and her friend Eric accompany Cam's parents to the local comedy club to support Cam's Aunt Molly, an aspiring stand-up comic who's competing for a silver platter and the chance to appear on television. Unfortunately, Aunt Molly cannot remember punch lines for even the most recognizable jokes and riddles. When the prize disappears, Cam's amazing skills kick in to help identify the thief and save the event. Young listeners will recognize familiar jokes and revel in the silliness of Aunt Molly's mixed-up versions, effectively narrated by Christina Moore. Moore's pacing and tone are spot-on for the story itself as well as the jokes' broad humor.