MWC editorial selection · Updated
By Marjorie Weinman Sharmat
What is it about?
Nate investigates a missing picture, treating a small everyday puzzle with the seriousness of a detective. Marjorie Weinman Sharmat’s story makes noticing details part of the fun.
Who might enjoy it?
For children who enjoy guessing before the answer arrives. Pause at a clue and ask for two possible explanations; changing a theory is part of detective work, not a mistake.
Things to consider
A low-stakes mystery; some younger readers may still want help with the detective vocabulary.
A question to take into your reading
Which clue would you follow first, and what would make you change your mind?
Premise and publication context: Publisher: Nate the Great. Reading-fit suggestions and discussion questions are MWC editorial guidance.
Keep exploring
- Great books for ages 6–8
Five first chapter books for ages 6–8, from funny pigs to junior detectives. Compare reading fit, illustrations and themes, then explore each book.
- Anna Hibiscus
Choose this for warm family stories and a setting beyond the usual British or American school adventure. Its everyday questions work well in conversation.
- How many words are in a book?
Multiply the number of pages by an estimated average of words per page. At Million Word Club's transparent default of 250 words per page, a 200-page book is estimated at 50,000 words.
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