The Wig in the Window: A Book Review

Hi!

Title: The Wig in the Window

Author: Kristen Kittscher

Published: June 18, 2013 by Harper Collin’s Children’s Books

Pages: 368

Genre: Middle Grade / Mystery

Source: Library / Hardcover

Series: Yep! Book Two is in the works; it will be called The Tiara on the Terrace

Summary: Best friends and seventh graders Sophie Young and Grace Yang have made a game out of spying on their neighbors. On one of their midnight stakeouts, they witness a terrifying, bloody scene at the home of their bizarre middle-school counselor, Dr. Charlotte Agford {aka Dr. Awkward}.

At least, they think they do. The truth is that Dr. Agford was only making her famous pickled beets! But when Dr. Agford begins acting even weirder than usual, Sophie and Grace become convinced that she’s hiding something—and they’re determined to find out what it is.

Soon the girls are breaking secret codes, being followed by a strange blue car, and tailing strangers with unibrows and Texas accents. But as their investigation heats up, Sophie and Grace start to crack under the pressure. They might solve their case, but will their friendship survive? {from Goodreads}

My Thoughts: I have been waiting for a really good middle grade mystery, and The Wig in the Window satisfied that want perfectly! Seriously, it had everything I look for in a good book, including developed and personality-filled main characters, an entertaining and perfectly paced plot, and a well-thought out ending. Although the release is plenty of months away {given that the date hasn’t even been announced yet}, I am anxiously waiting for the second adventure of detectives Sophie and Grace.

Sophie Young and Grace Yang are two best friends with some rather odd hobbies. One of which is spying on their neighbors, which leads to the discovery of just how strange Sophie’s school counselor, Dr. Agford really is. Despite adult’s doubts, Sophie and Grace are determined to uncover the truth of Dr. Agford’s past. How fun of a mystery is this?! Detective and spy stories continue to be my favorite types of books to read, so for me to consider one a favorite, the mystery has to be pretty unique. With this novel, I knew from the first chapter that I was in for a good read. Not only was the writing hilarious and funny, you could clearly tell that it was also thought-out and fully developed. I think one of the best parts of mysteries is being surprised, and the author definitely kept readers on their toes with all of the plot twists and turns.

Another plus to this book was the main characters. I don’t know about you, but with middle grade books, I think that having a relatable character on some level is key to keeping the intended audience interested. And Sophie and Grace sure were realistic. They weren’t perfect, obviously, but I loved that about them. I liked seeing how their flaws played into their relationship, especially between the two young detectives themselves. It’s not often to find an imperfect, almost strained, relationship in kids’ book; it usually best friends forever of a case of bullying. So I found it quite refreshing to see them struggle being friends at points. Tt was a different approach, and I look forward to seeing how the two grow in Book Two. For a supporting character shout-out, I really did love Trista!

I really don’t know what else to add beside urging you to add this one to your TBR list, or better yet, to read it right away. It’s good, and even though it is only January, I know I will be raving about this one come December 2014 :)

Pros: Well-paced and engaging story line without ever getting too predictable for the reader. The characters all felt incredibly realistic to me, which is something truly necessary in middle grade!

Cons: Nothing to add.

Heads Up: I don’t want to give too much away, but the ending got pretty intense. Nothing too over-the-top though for the marketed age group.

Overall: I give it a well-deserved 5 stars {*****}, and I recommend it for ages 11 and up.

Have a terrific night!
Bella