One False Note (The 39 Clues Series #2) »

Gordon Korman is one of the most beloved contemporary authors of today with more than 40 middle-grade novels to his credit. He published his first book at the wee age of fourteen, which turned into the Bruno and Boots series- still in print! Also a tireless self-promoter, Gordon travels across the country and even travels abroad to promote his books. Originally from Toronto, Gordon and his wife, a teacher, now live on Long Island with their little boy.

THIS JUST IN! Amy and Dan Cahill were spotted on a train, hot on the trail of one of 39 Clues hidden around the world. BUT WAIT! Police report a break-in at an elite hotel, and the suspects ALSO sound suspiciously like Amy and Dan. UPDATE! Amy and Dan have been seen in a car . . . no, in a speedboat chase . . . and HOLD EVERYTHING! They're being chased by an angry mob?!?

When there's a Clue on the line, anything can happen.

Children's Literature

Family continues to betray and prey on kin in this second "The 39 Clues" series book, which finds protagonists Amy and Dan Cahill aboard a train en route to Vienna, Austria. Pursuing a clue regarding composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the siblings find themselves wandering through Salzburg's catacombs. After escaping a dangerous cave-in, the pair eludes angry monks and competitors and travels to Venice, Italy, to follow a lead. Suspense heightens as rival relatives and new foes chase the duo through Venetian canals. This title offers readers the constant action they expect, but stereotyped characters, unrealistic scenarios, and predictable coincidences weaken storytelling. The supposedly malevolent Madrigals are mentioned with no further explanation. Korman's distinct style is occasionally evident in this formulaic book, particularly when giving voice to boys. Humorous scenes depict characters catering to Saladin, their finicky cat traveling companion. Historical information establishes clues, red herrings, settings, and characterizations and is often presented carelessly for entertainment. References to Mozart's sister Nannerl note she was as musically talented as her brother but unappreciated to emphasize Amy's piano skills. The series' premise that the Cahill family includes most major historical figures is implausible and misleading. This book's inaccurate claim that 18th-century painter Gilbert Stuart's great-grandmother was named Gertrude Cahill is irresponsible to cite as fact, especially when some readers might consult these books as sources for history homework. Reviewer: Elizabeth D. Schafer