The Man in the Water

The Man in the Water by David Burton (UQP) PB RRP $19.95 ISBN 9780702262524 Reviewed by Dianne Bates When sixteen-year-old Shaun finds a body floating in the lake of a quiet mining town in outback Queensland, he immediately reports it to the police. But when he returns to the site with the constable, the body is gone. This is the beginning of this novel for readers aged ten years and older which is a gripping mystery from popular #LoveOzYA author David Burton. While the adults brush off the death, Shaun and his mate Will are forced to open their own investigation. Their adventures take them all around town in their race to find justice for the Man on the Lake. The protagonist, Shaun, is just an average kid who dreams big: he wants to solve the crime (as well as wanting others to believe he found the body that’s gone missing), make his mum proud and capture the attentions of Megan who’s stolen his heart. Most of all, Shaun dreams about being a hero despite self-doubt which is reminiscent of the uncertainty of youth. When he finally gets some answers, Shaun discovers that life is not always so black and white. The novel deals with the themes of friendship, isolation and the struggle of living in a small mining town. There are also themes of suicide, grief & depression, but these are handled delicately and, in an age-appropriate way. This novel, with numerous amusing scenes and spot-on dialogue, is likely to be appreciated by YA readers who like crime solving.

Frankie DuPont and the High Seas Heist

Frankie DuPont and the High Seas Heist by Julie Anne Grasso, illustrated by Alexander Avellino (Julieannegrassobooks)

PB RRP $14.95

ISBN 9780994321602

Reviewed by Ashling Kwok

This exciting new chapter book is the latest in the Frankie Dupont series. The book follows the adventures of Frankie as he sets out to solve another crime, even before it is committed. This time the story takes place on a luxury cruise liner filled with chocolate sculptures, devious chocolatiers and more twists and turns than you can imagine.

The lively adventure sees Frankie and his friends set out to solve a mystery on board the ship by following a trail of clues and investigating suspects using DNA tracking machines, famous chocolate recipes and a trusty dogs nose.

Frankie DuPont and the High Seas Heist is perfect for middle grade readers aged 7-10 or anyone who enjoys a well-written book filled with fun, laughter and intrigue. Readers will learn the value of friendship, teamwork and perseverance and how anything can be achieved if they don’t give up.

Julie’s writing is fast-paced, animated and creative. And although this is another installment in the Frankie DuPont series, it is an original and entertaining story that will have readers dying to turn the page.

The cover of the book is enticing as it is brightly coloured and features cool images to hook young readers. The text is easy to read and the sentence structure clear and concise. The illustrations add a nice touch and break up the text.

Frankie DuPont and the High Seas Heist is an excellent book that starts strong and manages to maintain the reader’s interest throughout. It is a smart, well-written adventure and the perfect book to encourage kids who don’t love reading to give it a go.