Smugglers' Mine

by Chris Mould

In book five Stanley receives a visitor to the island, MacDowell, an old pirate who claims to have been a friend of Stanley's great uncle Admiral Swift. Stanley is taken with the new visitor and his stories and trusts him to help him with secrets of the map as they explore the underground tunnels for treasure. The new challenges Stanley faces in this book will keep reader's interest as Mould recaptures some of the quality from his earlier books.

4 of 5 stars - Recommended.

The Darkling Curse

by Chris Mould

In book four of the series readers find Stanley in yet another puzzling dilemma. Sinister and menacing black crows descend on Candlestick Hall foreshadowing the arrival of the Darkling family, who claim that the hall legally belongs to them. Stanley and friend Daisy use secret passages to spy on the Darklings, but it is their quick wit and resourcefulness that bring about a favorable ending. Reader’s unfamiliar with Stanley and the residents of Crampton Rock may not enjoy the book as thoroughly as those who are familiar with the series.

3 of 5 stars - Recommended.

Originally posted 28Dec2009

Silver Casket

by Chris Mould

In book three of the series, the power of the Ibis is drawing forth the sinister spirits of long dead pirates, including the evil Angel Cuzco. Stanley and Daisy prepare to protect Crampton Rock with the help of the gypsies, clever planning, and a bit of luck. The plot action moves at an uneven pace and is a bit scarier than previous books. Readers unfamiliar with the storyline may wish to read the first two books before reading this one.

3 of 5 stars - Recommended.

Originally posted 20Mar2010.

The Ice Hand

by Chris Mould

In book two of the series Stanley Buggles return to Crampton Rock for a winter visit. There’s a chill in the air and it is not because of the weather. Stanley must help a headless Admiral find his head, defend the Ibis from the approaching pirates and prevent the Quickening. Although readers are familiar with Mould’s air of creepiness the plot maintains its quick pace and eerie reading that readers will enjoy.

5 of 5 stars - Highly Recommended.

Originally posted 22Apr2009.

The Wooden Mile : Something Wickedly Weird

by Chris Mould

Stanley receives the front door key to his newly deceased great-uncle’s mansion, Candlestick Hall in Crampton Rock. Stanley knew right off that there was something very different about the place, and rightly so as Stanley encounters a talking fish, a creepy candy store owner, a werewolf, and a trio of pirates. Mould offers readers a quick paced story and black-and-white illustrations with just enough creepiness. The first of six books, readers may enjoy visiting the books website for more information on the characters and appropriately creepy noises.

5 of 5 stars - Highly Recommended.

Originally posted 16Feb2009.

Misty Gordon and the Mystery of the Ghost Pirates

by Kim Kennedy

It's hard enough being eleven, it's even harder when your farther buys dead people's antiques and drives a converted ice-cream truck. While working with her dad one day, Misty finds a notebook and pair of glasses that uncovers the mystery of the Golden Three and the real history behind the town of Ashcrumb. Although there are some minor plot flaws the overall story line is engaging and at a swift enough pace to keep readers attention. The black-and-white chapter headings add nicely to the overall "antique" feel of the book.

3 of 5 stars - Recommended.

The Case of the Rock'N'Roll Dog

by Martha Freeman

Cammie and younger sister Tessa are first daughters to the first female president of the United States. Exciting as this may seem it is not without its share of problems. First they need to be nice to their cousin Nate, then they need to control their dog Hooligan, and most importantly they need to figure out why objects keep disappearing from the White House. Failure to accomplish any one of these and the concert by their very favorite group, The Song Boys, might be cancelled. Freeman creates a predictable plot that will keep beginning mystery readers engaged. A front cover seal and book jacket notation indicate that this is the first in the new series titled "A First Kids Mystery."

3 of 5 Stars - Recommended.