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bethersjayne's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
fay2234's review against another edition
3.0
great middle grade book. fun fast paced book and i like the storyline.
christine_ao's review against another edition
4.0
This book was a wonder to me as a young teenager and helped me to see what all the fuss was about when it came to the magic surrounding any great mystery read, and for that alone, I can't thank Anthony Horowitz enough!
krikketgirl's review against another edition
3.0
Hard-boiled lite for middle grades, surprisingly witty and descriptive. Not overly graphic, but a bit of a body count.
ellielabbett's review against another edition
3.0
A pacy and intense crime story that sees Private Detectives Tim and Nick Diamond attempt to solve the mystery of a Malteaser box delivered to them under suspicious circumstances.
I have previously enjoyed books in this series and will always adore the hilarious relationship between the Diamond Brothers. Horowitz’s style of writing is built upon clever word play and dark humour, which is great fun, and would certainly entertain KS2 readers. Whilst highly amusing at times, to me, the emphasis upon comedy somewhat detracted from the greater plot. Although Nick’s efforts to salvage his older brother’s hopeless attempts at being a detective were always so quick witted, I did sometimes feel a little lost amidst the antics of the siblings and the deprecating commentary, rather than focusing on the greater goings on within the crime industry. Perhaps just a narrative that is better to read in small doses, but nevertheless one that I would recommend to children.
I have previously enjoyed books in this series and will always adore the hilarious relationship between the Diamond Brothers. Horowitz’s style of writing is built upon clever word play and dark humour, which is great fun, and would certainly entertain KS2 readers. Whilst highly amusing at times, to me, the emphasis upon comedy somewhat detracted from the greater plot. Although Nick’s efforts to salvage his older brother’s hopeless attempts at being a detective were always so quick witted, I did sometimes feel a little lost amidst the antics of the siblings and the deprecating commentary, rather than focusing on the greater goings on within the crime industry. Perhaps just a narrative that is better to read in small doses, but nevertheless one that I would recommend to children.
ilsa's review against another edition
3.0
okay not my favourite diamond brother books (i wanted more Herbert!) but still so much fun
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