The Interrupted Tale

Gr 3–7—Penelope is struggling with a number of mysteries: Her parents are still missing, her friend Simon has not written, and there is still a mysterious howling in the attic. She is excited, though, when she receives an invitation to speak at her alma mater, the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females. Going to Swanburne will give her a chance to determine just what the newest trustee, Judge Quinzy, is up to, for Penelope fears that he is not who he seems. When she arrives, she learns that everything is about to change, and saving the school rests on her shoulders. Just enough questions are answered and plot threads left open to keep readers enticed. It isn't necessary to be familiar with previous titles in the series to enjoy this one, but readers will want to go back to see how Penelope's journey began. Katherine Kellgren is a delightful reader. She gives each character a distinctive voice and is a lovely singer. Both parents and children will be clamoring for more. Give this to readers who enjoyed Lemony Snicket's "A Series of Unfortunate Events" titles (HarperCollins).—Elizabeth Elsbree, Krug Elementary School, Aurora, IL