The 39 Clues: The Maze of Bones (Book One) Audio Playaway

Author: Rick Riordan

Narrator: David Pittu

Publisher: Scholastic Audiobooks

Prices: Playaway sets are free in Libraries.  Audiobook, 17.95

Reading level: Ages 8-12 years 

Interest level: Middle and Upper grades

Physical Characteristics: small playaway device with extra battery in case and a standard headphone plug.  Inclusion of strap to wear around neck.  5.25 hours, 2 ounces

Series: The 39 Clues

ISBN: 9781606400432

Genres:  Audiobooks, Juvenile Fiction

Subjects:

Interactive Adventure

Mysteries and Detective Stories

Action and Adventure

Family Secrets



Annotation:  Young Amy and Dan Cahill are orphans, after the death of their grandmother they find out that their family, the Cahills, is the most influential family in history and begin a quest to find a mystery item.  

Summary: This book begins with the death of a very wealthy woman, Grace Cahill.  As her family gathers to read the wil we meet her orphaned grandchildren Amy and Dan Cahill and the rest of their large and extended International family.  As the will is read, everyone is given a choice: you can immediately take a million dollars, or burn the money and compete to find 39 Clues. The clues will lead the searchers to a mystery that will make the finder the most powerful person in the world.  The first Clue is related to Benjamin Franklin, and takes the Cahills from Boston, to Philadelphis to Frtance.  There is peril, puzzles and humor along the way.

  

Amy Cahill, Dan Cahill, and two of their competing Cahills

Evaluation: I was engrossed by this audiobook.  I am not a huge reader or listener of much older children’s fiction or YA.  But, I loved this story and am looking forward to listening to more.  The narration was great.  Mr. Pittu was able to do subtle vocal shits that did not disctract, but instead clearly defined each of the many characters.   As for the format, I loved the neck string.  I was able to pack boxes, as I am moving, and listen to the story at the same time.  It really made moving a tad bit less mimserable!



Similar Titles or Authors:

Harry Potter by JK Rowling

Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket



Websites:

the39clues.scholastic.com



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