Scan barcode
glens's review
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
The book is set in 18th-century London and follows the story of two twelve-year-old girls from very different backgrounds, Lizzie Sancho and Dido Belle. Lizzie lives in Westminster and helps her father run his tea shop, while Belle is an heiress being raised by her aunt and uncle in the grand Kenwood House. Despite their different upbringings, the girls share a love for solving mysteries and quickly become best friends.
One night, while attending a performance at the Drury Lane theatre, Lizzie and Belle notice something suspicious happening on stage. They decide to investigate, which sets them off on a thrilling adventure full of danger and drama. The mystery is fast-paced and suspenseful, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
One of the best things about this book is the friendship between Lizzie and Belle. The girls' bond is heart-warming and genuine, and the author does an excellent job of developing their characters throughout the story. Lizzie is curious, brave, and determined, while Belle is intelligent, compassionate, and resourceful. The dynamic between the two girls is realistic and relatable, and their relationship will likely inspire young readers to value the importance of true friendship.
The historical setting of 18th-century London is also a highlight of the book. The author has done an excellent job of bringing the period to life, with rich and vivid descriptions of the city, its people, and its culture. The book includes a diverse cast of characters, including real historical figures such as Dido Elizabeth Belle, who was a mixed-race heiress and lived in Kenwood House in the 1700s. The book's historical accuracy and attention to detail are impressive and will likely spark an interest in history for young readers.
The only criticism of the book is that some parts of the story feel a bit rushed and underdeveloped. There are times when the plot feels a bit too convenient, and some of the character development could have been more nuanced. Nonetheless, these issues do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book.
In conclusion, #TheLizzieandBelleMysteriesDramaandDanger by J.T. Williams is a highly entertaining and informative middle-grade mystery book that is perfect for young readers who enjoy historical fiction and detective stories. The book's engaging plot, lovable characters, and fascinating historical setting make it an excellent choice for parents and educators who are looking for inspiring and educational literature for children. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery story with a historical twist. I give it a solid 4/5 star rating.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism
Minor: Abandonment and Alcohol
More...