I was really looking forward to reading this one -- the cover is great and the premise sounded fun. But I didn't enjoy it much. This is one of the few kids books that I couldn't wait to get through because I just wanted it to be over.

I didn't like either Lexi or Kim at all; they're rather annoying and frustrating main characters without many redeeming qualities. Aunt Roz and Kevin are alright, but they're only secondary characters and aren't stand-out enough to make up for Lexi and Kim. ( )

I won this from the Goodreads First Reads Giveaway.

I really felt a little bad for winning this when it was meant for an audience 20 years younger than I am. I am so glad I did though! This was a fantastic book. I thoroughly enjoyed it! The characters were interesting, the dialogue was believable and well done. The pacing was good. I would recommend this book to anyone with kids who love to read, and any adults who still enjoy reading a good book regardless of target audience.

I was very impressed that this book wasn't dumbed down the way some books in this age range are. The author managed to insert a large amount of vocabulary and meanings as part of the story and I liked that. ( )

When reading this book I had to keep in mind that the targeted audience was a middle schooler, not a grown woman with 2 children. I did give it to my 9 year old to read but it didn't quite grab him.

I liked the premise of the story...stolen Cleopatra jewels and a child who may or may not have information on who the culprits may be.

When reading the book I tried to put my brain in middle schooler mode. This being said, yes, it's exciting, the kids are brave and smart and eventually solve the crime. The story is an easy read with a plot that is easy to follow. ( )

Madhatten Mystery by John J. Bonk is the perfect mystery for young kids to seniors! This book sparkles with creativity and character.

I couldn't ask for better characters. Lexie and her younger brother, Kevin who live in the small town of Cold Springs, New York are shuttled off to New York. Lexie missed her mother and is suspicious of her new step mother. Her younger brother is started to regress to a younger age and she has taken up mothering him. They stay with their colorful Aunt Roz, an ex Rockette,
and actress looking for parts. They are already signed up for Day Camp but are not looking forward to it.

Lexie meets Kim Ling Levine who has "a brain the size of Utah. The adventure starts from the moment that Lexie and her brother are in Grand Central Station. They experience the subway, the mole people, Metropolitan Museum of Art, the homeless and being really sacred.

The writing is engaging and won't let you stop reading until you have met the final twist of the mystery. All the characters are so memorable and well developed that I hope to join them on other adventures.

I highly recommend this mystery to all book lovers, young and old. This is perfection!

I received this book as a part of the GoodReads Program but that in no way influenced my review. ( )

On her first day in New York City with her younger brother, Kevin, twelve-year-old Lexi overhears thieves discussing where to hide stolen jewels, and the siblings, along with their aunt's neighbor, Kim Ling, skip day camp to investigate "the crime of the century."