The Maze of Bones is the first book of The 39 Clues, a new series written for 8- to 12-year-olds. It introduces us to the Cahill family, whose members are off on a treasure hunt that will take them around the world. Fans are invited to read the books, collect clue cards, and visit The 39 Clues website to learn more.
The Maze of Bones easily stands on its own as a well-written adventure story. It features characters I care about and a plot-line that leaves me wanting to read more. Cynics may say that this is just a marketing ploy to sell trading cards, but I disagree. Collecting cards may be an added incentive, but won't be very interesting in itself if you haven't read the book.
In addition, linking a very cool website to the book is an intriguing idea. I have to admit I was eager to find out what branch of the Cahill family I belonged to (much like being sorted into a house at Hogwarts!). I am not much of a "gamer", but the website is full of clever challenges and interesting features, and the chance to win prizes is very appealing - although you must be younger than 14 to win.
I think the people at Scholastic have a good thing going here. The Maze of Bones was written by popular author , and Canadian author follows up with Book 2, One False Note (due December 2008). Other famous authors have been lined up to write the remaining installments.
| Categories: Reviews, buzz |
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