PD McPem’s Agency for Mysterious Mysteries #3 The Baffling Beach Bandit
Written by Anna Battese
Illustrations by Ruth-Mary Smith
Reviewed by Melissa Elk
The Baffling Beach Bandit is Case 3 in this engaging series of mysteries written for newly independent readers by author Anna Battese. It follows Case 1: The Recorder Racket, and Case 2: The Puzzling Pet Parade, (2022).
It’s beach safety day and PD and her school friends are off on an adventure with their class when an unexpected and mysterious incident derails their plans. Determined to solve the case, Detective PD McPem and her friends get to work inspecting the scene and questioning the ‘Witlesses’.
PD is a delightful protagonist, outgoing, kind, and always up for adventure. She lives with her mum and puppy Scooter, and spends a lot of time with her grandparents. The least grown-up of all the grown-ups PD knows, Detective Assistant Grandpa is her go-to confidant and biggest supporter. The special relationship between the two is heart-warming.
Introduced in the earlier books, PD’s friends Theodora, Eadie and Max also return, each bringing distinct personalities and agendas which enrich the story. A former marine biologist, Anna expertly weaves environmental and educational elements into the narrative via Theodora who shares her passion and knowledge of the ocean and its inhabitants with her friends.
Anna’s writing style and language choices are perfect for the age group. Wherever higher level words or concepts are introduced, these are explained through query and conversation among characters, without ever talking down to the reader. There is plenty of action and intrigue, with clues and subtle misdirections deftly intertwined to both ignite the reader’s imagination and keep them guessing.
The playful illustrations by Ruth-Mary Smith dotted throughout break up the text for the reader and complement the story, offering a sweet interpretation of the characters and setting.
This book will appeal to 5-7 year olds who enjoy suspense and the challenge of a mystery to solve. It was devoured in a single sitting read aloud to both a 5 and a 7 year old in our home (amidst much verbal sleuthing from both along the way). It would undoubtedly likewise captivate an audience in the school setting. Equally, it would offer a fun and confidence-boosting read for newly independent readers.
Riveted Press 2024
Anna Battese
Ruth-Mary Smith
