The mysterious disappearance of a friend’s precious charm sets the sassy sleuth, Alana Oakley, on the warpath. But Alana quickly realises that having Attitude with a capital ‘A’ isn’t enough to solve the case – not when her first year at Gibson High has her duelling with the military inspired Coach Kusmuk, dodging the over-exuberant Nurse Cathy or deciphering dubious algebraic equations. If that wasn’t enough to deal with, her impulsive and accident-prone mother is one click away from Internet-dating a mass murderer! Or a magician! Or worse!
The biggest mystery of all is whether Alana’s birthday wish will come true: Will this year be different or will it go horribly wrong, as usual?
Who is Alana Oakley? Click here
Ziggi Neave –
My daughter loves this book – and so does her Mum – it’s wonderful to read a book that is relevant – Australian – and has strong young female role models who are fun and interesting for our daughters and sons to relate to. The underlying lesson of acceptance is perfect, different children, ideas and nationalities very subtle but integral. We tried to smash this book in one sitting but the day got away from us.. and now its time to reread! The mum is a crack-up… I am looking forward to the next book in the series. Well done Poppy.
Good Reading Review –
Alana is ready for high School. She has everything organised, which is a good thing because her mother isn’t reliable with mundane tasks like paying bills or remembering important dates. Ever since Alana’s dad died, her mother has buried herself in her work and it has been Alana’s job to be the practical one. On the first day at her new school Alana makes a new friend, is confused and confronted by the physical education teacher, and is given a mystery to solve. Someone has stolen Sofia’s charm bracelet. Alana is on the case. It would be nice to say that all went smoothly but it wouldn’t be true. The mayhem in Alana’s life is caused by her good intentions to right a wrong. The mayhem in her mother’s life is caused by well-intentioned friends. Getting things wrong because a person means well isn’t the prerogative of the young. This funny, quirky romp will delight and entertain.