Midnight in the Piazza

Gr 4–6—Beatrice Archer is determined, perhaps even destined, to solve a series of interconnecting mysteries in this lavish tale of secrets and synchronicity. Just before her 13th birthday, Beatrice's father gets a prestigious job in Rome. Although initially opposed to the move, Beatrice is clever and curious, and the lure of the ancient city's rich culture piques her interest. She becomes more intrigued when she sees the beautiful fountain—complete with four bronze turtles—in the piazza outside her new apartment building, and hears rumors about a local curse. One night, she witnesses a theft at the fountain, but is unable to convince her father it has happened. Undeterred, Beatrice embarks on a mission that leads her to discover some tragic truths behind the local legends, and interrupt a major art heist in the process. In this cleverly crafted story, Beatrice is a delightfully quirky character, and an avid lover and user of knowledge. The only drawback is how frequently she lets the attitude and opinion of Marco influence her.