The Maze of Bones (39 Clues, #1) by Rick Riordan

Amy and Dan Cahill (age 14 and 11) are returning to their beloved grandmother's estate for one last time, for her funeral and the reading of her will. For Amy & Dan, this day isn't about how much money they will inherit. It is another painful reminder that they are all alone now, without their beloved Grace, whom they spent wonderful weekends with. Their parents died seven years ago in a fire and since then, they have been living under the guardianship of their awful Aunt Beatrice who hires, and just as quickly fires, au pairs to watch over them.

But what Amy, Dan, and about 40 other select relatives learn will change everything. You see, minutes before her death, Grace changed her will. Those invited to the reading have a choice. Take a check for $1,000,000, your share of the inheritance, OR accept the challenge and forfeit the money. However there can only be one winner. Those who choose to accept and join the quest may work alone or in teams. Each team will receive the first of thirty-nine clues. The clues are scattered around the globe and will lead to a secret that will make the winner(s) the most powerful and influential humans on the planet. They will discover that many of the great people of the past were Cahills.

Amy and Dan are tempted to take the money until a conversation with Aunt Beatrice changes their minds. The first clue sends the seven participating teams off on a race to Philadelphia and Paris, a race against time and each other, complete with a fire, bombs, collapsing ground, and more. You see, the other teams believe that Grace gave Amy and Dan inside information and therefore want to eliminate them. So Amy and Dan are all alone, unable to trust anyone.

Will Amy and Dan survive the quest for the 39 Clues? And who is the man in the black suit watching their every move?

Why I picked it up: Our middle school book club was interested in reading it.

Why I finished the book: It is a super fast read. Lots of action, adventure, and mystery. Although my book was used and didn't have the cards, I think it might be fun for tween & teen readers to participate in the online, interactive quest. If I had time, I would definitely pick up the 2nd book and read through the whole series.

I'd give it to: fans of mystery series and those who like interactive books. The symbols, clues, and fast pace reminds me of Dan Brown but for a younger set.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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