"He hurried after the intruders, who were
already pulling up chairs around the kitchen
table. Since there weren't enough chairs for
everyone, one of the Bumblers - a man with
extremely long legs - hopped up on the
countertop. Leo had a feeling they'd been
in the kitchen before, and an even stronger
feeling that Grandpa wouldn't want them there."
Both mystery and adventure are at the heart of this novel that sees Leo and his younger sister Lizzie make a visit to Heron Island to spend time with their grandfather. Their grandmother has recently died, and their parents have decided to spend that time with Grandpa to help him cope with the many changes.
Their father loves the city, and finds living on the island, without a link to the greater world, a bit too much. When a chance to spend time in a nearby spa arises, he convinces the kids that their mom needs a break. Off they go, leaving the children alone with Grandpa for a few days. The three have a lot to learn about each other. After Grandma's death, Grandpa has learned all he can about beekeeping to preserve the 12 bee hives she so dearly loved.
When a neighbor arrives early the first morning to let them know the hives are gone, Grandpa is determined to find them and bring them home. To that end, he enlists the help of his grandchildren. Where can the hives be, and who has taken them? It is their task to solve the mystery.
Readers will very much enjoy the adventures that eventually lead to the culprit, and allows them to discover the reason for the hives' disappearance. Leo is cautious, Grandpa is often grumpy, and the issues encountered during their search are numerous. Grandpa likes to drive fast, isn't afraid to hitch rides when they are needed, and encourages trespassing when he thinks he knows what has really happened. Lizzie is unconcerned, and spends her time caring for a feral kitten she has named Mayhem. Adventure seems to be her cup of tea.
Middle graders will enjoy this cast of memorable characters, and the danger inherent in their quest. to discover the truth. Often funny, with 'punny' language that will evoke a few hearty laughs, this is a book that would make a great read aloud in a grade four/five classroom. Someone there is sure to want to read it again.
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