The Suspect in the Smoke cover

The Suspect in the Smoke

Author: Keene, Carolyn

Reading Metrics

Grade Level Middle Grades (MG 4-8)
Book Level 4.9
Points 4.0
Fiction/Nonfiction Fiction
Word Count 29868
Points per Word 0.000134
Page Count 154
Points per Page 0.025974

Description

When a fire destroys the River Street Recreation Center, teenage detective Nancy Drew suspects arson and believes the culprit will strike again. She launches her own investigation, piecing together clues while the police remain in the dark. As she gets closer to the truth, Nancy finds herself in increasing peril, racing against time to stop another blaze and expose the arsonist.

Quick Summary

Nancy Drew is back in a fast-moving mystery that feels like a classic puzzle box, perfect for kids who love a good clue hunt. When a suspicious fire erupts in a small town, she teams up with her friends to dig through smoke, alibis, and red-herring clues, racing against time before the fire spreads again. The story mixes light-hearted moments with enough tension to keep readers on their toes, but there's nothing too scary just the kind of wholesome danger that makes you want to turn the page. Kids who love solving riddles, enjoy a heroine who's smart and brave, or who already like series like the Hardy Boys will find plenty to like here. Parents will appreciate that the plot stresses teamwork, curiosity, and problem-solving without any iffy language or graphic content, making it a solid choice for a read-alone or read-aloud adventure.