Book Review: 'The Lost Property Office (Section 13)' by James R. Hannibal

✰✰✰✰½ Jack Buckles has arrived in London with his mom and sister to search for his missing dad. It seems that their father has disappeared without a trace, so when his little sister Sadie thinks she has caught a glimpse of his coat, she takes off after him. Jack, in turn, takes off after her. When he finally catches up, he finds himself at the Lost Property Office.

As he fills out the appropriate paperwork, Jack learns that things are not always what they seem. His dad is actually a Tracker and has been kidnapped by the mysterious and dangerous Clockmaker. If Jack wants to save his father, he and Gwen, an apprentice clerk with the Ministry of Trackers, must recover what is known as the Ember. There’s not much to go on, but Jack does possess a magical ability to read clues on objects. As Gwen helps him hone his skills, Jack must learn to trust himself. Working as a team, Jack and Gwen follow the clues of a mystery dating back to the Great Fire of 1666. With family secrets and twists and turns, this is one mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Bottom Line: This fast-paced read will appeal to the middle grade set. With lots of action, adventure, and just a hint of the supernatural, this debut series is fun for all. Enthusiastically recommended for kids in grades 5 – 7 and libraries.

Details: The Lost Property Office (Section 13) by James R. Hannibal. Published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers in 2016. 400 p. ISBN: 978-1481467094