Name: The Book of Secrets
Author: Cynthia Voigt

Category: Review

Genres: Action, Middle Grade, Mystery, To-read

From Newbery Medalist Cynthia Voigt, Book II in the exciting adventures of Mister Max—12-year-old detective in disguise. In Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things, Max Starling proved that he is more than a detective, he’s a Solutioneer. His reputation for problem-solving has been spreading—and now even the mayor wants his help. Someone is breaking windows and setting fires in the old city, but the shopkeepers won’t say a word about the culprits. Why are they keeping these thugs’ secrets? When the mayor begs for help, Max agrees to take the case, putting himself in grave danger. It’s a race to catch up with the vandals before they catch him. Meanwhile, Max is protecting secrets of his own. His parents are still missing, and the cryptic messages he gets from them make it clear—it’s going to be up to Max to rescue them. Can the Solutioneer handle cases this big? Praise for Mister Max: The Book of Lost Things “An endearing, memorable protagonist and a clever plot make this a winner.” —Kirkus Reviews, Starred

The Book of Secrets (Mister Max #2) by Cynthia Voigt was an entertaining read. The interweaving of the various plots is interesting. I’m surprised that I don’t mind the verbose descriptions, as I seem to have gotten used to it.

Like so many others who have reviewed this book, I do agree that the protagonist should have been older. It’s difficult to imagine that someone mistakes him for an adult, and particularly his assistant, who is younger than he is. I also agree with those who have said the books need to be read in order. The reader will get so much more out of them that way.

Otherwise, I enjoy the use of various disguises and particularly how Max uses his head to figure out the solutions to the problems that come his way.

Definitely, a series that I can recommend.

The Book of Secrets (Mister Max, #2)

The Book of Secrets (Mister Max, #2)

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