Features
- Reading level: Ages 9-12
- Cover Type: Paperback with 128 pages
- Published by: Aladdin April 1, 2002
- Written in: English
- ISBN 10 Number: 0689849117
- ISBN 13 Number: 978-0689849114
-
Book Dimensions:
7.6 x 5.2 x 0.4 inches
- Weighs: 3.2 ounces
From Publishers Weekly
Set in 1932, Heyes's (Children of the Swastika: The Hitler Youth) sprightly mystery kicks off a series of three tales starring an 11-year-old movie actor, Billy O'Dwyer, who spends most of his time living in
New York City with his abusive agent, Maureen, occasionally visiting his British-born parents in Massachusetts. Soon after Billy meets Virginia Grady, his young co-star on a forthcoming film, an actress who works for their studio is murdered in the Coney Island apartment owned by the studio head. When a policeman (a former studio employee) finds the body, hovering over the cadaver is another actor, Roscoe Muldoon, a kind man who has befriended Billy. The police arrest Muldoon, yet Billy believes his pal is innocent and teams up with Virginia to find the real killer. Though readers aren't likely to harbor any doubts that the determined sleuths will triumph, Heyes interjects several red herrings. Credible period details and dialogue, as well as the affecting depiction of Billy's close rapport with his father, adds to the caper's appeal. With their likable personalities and sassy repartee, Billy and Virginia prove to be worthy of the spotlight and of an encore performance. Ages 9-12.
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grades 4-6--This novel set in 1932 introduces readers to the world of a child actor at the time when talking pictures were new and Prohibition was the law of the land, if widely ignored. When Billy O'Dwyer's friend Roscoe "Chubby" Muldoon is accused of murdering actress Amelia St. Augustine, the youngster and fellow child actor Virginia Grady set out to clear his name. Their investigation takes them from the movie lot to the murder scene in Coney Island to the owner of the studio before they find the real culprit. Much of the action is reminiscent of a film from the era. A subplot concerns the abuse (both verbal and physical) that Billy receives from his manager, a story line that is happily resolved. A quick read for mystery fans.
Terrie Dorio, Santa Monica Public Library, CACopyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
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