 | Shadow On The Wreck (Mizzy Mysteries) Author: Hatcher-Smith, Claire | |
| Price: $22.58 | ||
Summary:
Mizzy is spending half-term with cousins in St Jude’s-on-Sea: a seaside town struggling to accommodate an influx of refugees. When she sees a spooky shadow on a wrecked old fishing boat on the shore, she thinks she’s found her next mystery. But her cousins seem determined to keep her in the dark about their comings and goings to the wreck, and she’s left alone to help their old Greek-Cypriot grandfather Papou sort out his papers.
Reviews:
School Library Journal (06/01/26)
Full Text Reviews:
School Library Journal - 06/01/2026 Gr 3–7—Mizzy Maypole, a perceptive and determined 13-year-old with Down syndrome, is spending her break in the seaside town of St. Jude with her cousin Oli and his extended family. Hoping to bond with Oli's older twin cousins, Mizzy instead finds herself feeling left out and underestimated. When she spots a strange shadow on a shipwreck and learns that Oli's grandfather, Papou, has been receiving mysterious postcards, Mizzy turns her attention to solving the mystery, accompanied by a loyal dog she dubs her own "Watson." Hatcher-Smith crafts a warm, engaging story that balances a light mystery with an authentic exploration of adolescence. Mizzy's voice is particularly compelling; her frustration at being treated as younger or less capable will resonate with readers navigating similar feelings of wanting independence and respect. The seaside setting adds to the atmosphere, and the mystery unfolds at a steady pace, offering enough intrigue to keep middle grade readers engaged without overwhelming them. What sets this title apart is its nuanced portrayal of relationships. Characters who initially seem unkind or dismissive are gradually revealed to have greater depth and motivation, reinforcing themes of empathy and understanding. Mizzy's growth in confidence and self-advocacy is handled with care, making her a relatable and inspiring protagonist. Mizzy is cued white. VERDICT A charming and accessible read, this title is well suited for middle grade collections seeking inclusive representation and character-driven mysteries.—Patricia Snoblen - Copyright 2026 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
