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Description
Jillian's summer takes a turn when her mother's remarriage forces her to leave Pennsylvania for a cramped New York City apartment and a new stepsister who seems determined to make her life miserable. Just as she's resigned to endless camp activities, she's asked to catsit for the elderly neighbor in the penthouse, a job that opens a door to a hidden mystery right in her own building. With the help of a few new friends, Jillian discovers that the ordinary apartment complex holds a secret that could change everything. The story blends family adjustment, city adventure, and a puzzle that drives the narrative.
Quick Summary
If you have a kid who's anxious about starting somewhere new, this book speaks directly to them. Jillian moves to the bustling streets of New York City, feeling like an outsider, and transforms her loneliness into an exciting adventure by observing her neighbors and eventually stumbling into a real mystery to solve. The balance between the fun detective work and the relatable experience of being the new kid who has to figure out how to make friends feels spot-on for this age group. It's not scary or intense just a fun, light mystery with enough twists to keep pages turning, which makes it perfect for readers who want excitement without anything too spooky. Fans of "From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" will likely enjoy this one for similar reasons city setting, clever kid protagonist, and that satisfying feeling of figuring something out. Parents can feel good about the wholesome themes of curiosity, friendship, and figuring out where you belong.