The Money Pit Mystery

Gr 4—7—Sam's grandfather and mother had a fight years ago, and now Sam, his sister, and their mother are visiting him for the first time in years. When they arrive on tiny Oak Island, they are shocked to discover how rundown the man's once-immaculate house has become. To make matters worse, he isn't even there. When Sam, Beth, and their friend, Buzz, do some exploring, they are surprised by some security guards at the town's "money pit." Some folks believe that Captain Kidd buried treasure here. The legend leads searchers on a wild goose chase and many, like Sam's Grandpa, cannot quit looking for it. When Sam finally sees him, he finds that his grandfather is just a shell of the man he used to be. Other townsfolk have begun to worry about him and Sam's mom realizes that she may have to make some tough decisions. After studying one of his grandfather's old maps, Sam realizes that Captain Kidd most likely tricked everyone, and the three youngsters set out for a new location. Sam is a likable character whom kids will relate to. Beth's relationship with Buzz is awkward and funny, and readers will understand Sam's frustration when his childhood friend flirts with his sister. The siblings' relationship is realistic; they irritate and exasperate each other, yet when it comes down to the wire, they truly love each other. Sam's mom and grandfather are multidimensional characters, and the grandfather's recognition of his oncoming senility is compassionately portrayed. This is a well-thought-out mystery with lots of suspense and a fully realized picture of a struggling family.—Julie Shatterly, W.A. Bess Elementary School, Gastonia, NC