Chasing Vermeer
Mysterious letters delivered after dark, showers of frogs, and unexplained repetitions of the number twelve are just a few of the diverse elements present in this intricate mystery. Sixth graders Calder and Petra, classmates both hovering on the fringes of their school's social scene, are drawn together by a missing Vermeer painting. Petra (whose heritage is North AFrican, Middle Eastern and white) is sensitive to words, while Calder (Indian American and white) operates comfortably within a world of symbols and patterns. Both children bring their unique skills and perspectives to the search for the lost painting, and together they make a formidable detective duo. As events escalate to a frenzy (often playfully stretching credibility), readers are invited to share in the sleuthing process. In addition to hints and clues within the story, images of pentominoes are camouflaged within the illustrations, offering a hidden message if correctly decoded. Ultimately, Petra and Calder's resolve pays off as they solve the mystery, and raise some important questions about art, friendship, perception and truth along the way. ©2004 Cooperative Children's Book Center
Illustrated by Brett Helquist
CCBC Age Recommendation: Ages 8-12
Age Range:
Grades 3-5 (Ages 8-10)
Grades 6-8 (Ages 11-13)
Format:
Novel
Subjects:
Action/Adventure
Art and Artists
City Life
Friendship
Indians and Indian Americans
Math and Mathematicians
Mysteries
School
Teachers/Mentors
Diversity subjects:
Asian
Black/African
Middle East
Publisher:
Scholastic Press
Publish Year: 2004
Pages: 254
ISBN: 0439372941
CCBC Location: Fiction, Balliet