Shining the Spotlight on Mysteries

Solving mysteries is always fun! Putting the pieces together in books we read and write can be very satisfying. In honor of Mystery Week on Goodreads, we're sharing a few of our favorite mysteries with you. We look forward to hearing about the stories that kept you guessing!

Stephanie's Favorites

Nancy Drew- What can I say? I devoured these books growing up.  My aunt passed along a few copies she had to me when I was in fifth grade and I fell in love with the stories. I would go to the library and check out eight at a time, reading them all back to back. It didn't take me long to read them all, as I would sometimes read two in a day! I couldn't get enough, and it was a little bittersweet for me when I got to the end of the series.


At the time I had no idea that the books were written by different writers all using the same name. I didn't learn that bit of information until a few years ago. At first, I was a little sad, but then I realized that the books sparked my love for mysteries and I truly enjoyed diving into Nancy's world.

Sammy Keyes- Sammy is spunky and fun! She is a modern day sleuth who stumbles into trouble. Luckily, when she is faced with danger she manages to stay ahead of things!

I read the first book in the series with my first fifth grade class, and I laughed out loud when Sammy waved at a thief she saw through her binoculars. The stories are fast paced and full of action. Sammy's antics help to lighten the mood. Definitely a great series to get into!

Jess's Favorites

Edward Gorey- Yes, the master of mystery always keeps me guessing. I love his writing and illustrations. The twists and turns in his stories and pictures are captivating, and the clues can be anything and anywhere. Recently, Fairday reviewed a book written by John Bellairs and illustrated by Edward Gorey, The House With A Clock in Its Walls. It's a great mystery matched with excellent illustrations. If you want to check it out, click here.

Harriet the Spy- Sometimes, spying can get you into trouble. No one knows that better than Harriet. Imagine losing your notebook with all your secret thoughts, and then having them found by the people who you were writing about. It's important to collect clues, but being careful with your evidence is key. A fun mystery to follow along with!

There are many kinds of mysteries and nothing is better than curling up with one. We've shared some that have kept us turning the pages, and we'd love to hear about the stories you love!

Answer to Monday's Riddle: Mystery Week!

Excellent guessing, Riddlers! This week we're celebrating Mystery & Thriller Week with our friends at Goodreads. We'll be dropping clues about a few of our favorite mysteries on Friday, so stay tuned! See you all around the book block. ; ) ~ F

This week holds suspense on the line; goodreads clues are a sign. Sleuthing in to cover the case, Nancy's flashlight will reveal the face. Sammy's keys may get you in, Harriet notes what happened. The master of this, Edward Gorey, draws it into every story.

What am I referring to? Answer: Mystery! 

Fairday's Riddles: Volume I 
Make time to riddle and rhyme!

62 original riddles and illustrations
Available in all e-book formats 

Monday's Riddle: Catch A Clue!

Hello, Riddlers! Can you guess our theme this week? We're obviously huge fans of this. ; ) ~ F

This week holds suspense on the line; goodreads clues are a sign. Sleuthing in to cover the case, Nancy's flashlight will reveal the face. Sammy's keys may get you in, Harriet notes what happened. The master of this, Edward Gorey, draws it into every story.

What am I referring to? Stop by Wednesday for the answer! 

I gave you a clue!

Author Interview with Shelley Gill

The DMS was lucky to interview Shelley Gill. Fairday reviewed her book Big Blue, and it was great to share our thoughts about it and hear yours! We're excited to learn a little more about her story. So, without further ado... take it away, Shelley!

1) What inspired you to write Kiana’s Iditarod?

At the time I raced there were no books about the Iditarod, so I wrote one.

2) You have written many picture books. Which one took you the longest?

Gabe took maybe six months.  If I Were a Whale took two days and one editing pass.

3) Many of your book are based in or on the state of Alaska. What was your research process like for some of your books?

Most of my books come from life experience. But one I'm working on now-we'll call it Balto- has required two trips to Cleveland to look up old newspaper clippings, which are horrible resources, and interviews with four 90-100 year old women who were children during the serum run.

4) Was there any aspect of your research that was the most interesting?

So much factual info is lost.

5)  The Iditarod is a common theme in your books.  You have also raced in the Iditarod.  What can you tell us about your experience and what would you like kids to know about the race?

The Iditarod sled dog race is an epic adventure. It's not like you can just step onto the sled. You have to have really top-notch outdoor skills, you have to know your dogs. It's the toughest race on earth. But doing stuff like the Iditarod makes your life worth living.

6) You have lived in Alaska for over 30 years. What are some of the best aspects about living there?

Alaska, like everywhere else, is changing. It has always had a history of people coming there and taking what they wanted. Gold, furs, oil. I came there for a different reason. To experience real wilderness. Those two goals-to pillage and to ponder are not compatible.

7) What are some of your favorite books from childhood? Were there any specific authors who inspired you?

The Lion’s Paw  and White Fang were two of my favorite books. Authors: Jack London, Robert Service, and Hemingway.  

8) You have lived in Alaska for over 30 years. What are some of the best aspects about living there?

Alaska like everywhere else is changing. It has always had a history of people coming there and taking what they wanted. Gold, furs, oil. I came there for a different reason. To experience real wilderness. Those two goals-to pillage and to ponder are not compatible.

9)  You work with marine biologists who are studying whales. What can people do to help protect these beautiful creatures?

Protect their habitat. Every second breath we take comes from the oceans of the world. If we don't take care of the oceans- humans and whales will not survive.

NOAA Photo Library

10) If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Alaska, although it breaks my heart.

11) Shelley wrote Big Blue based on the experience she had with her daughter, Kye. Listen to her talk about whales and tell the story behind the story.

(She gives some background and the story about swimming with Big Blue starts at 2:18.)

12) Where can we purchase your books? Amazon: Shelley Gill

Margo's Musings: Big Blue

My dreams are filled with huge gliding shapes, swirling in turquoise waters. Whales- blue whales." ~Big Blue, Shelley Gill

My little sister, Margo, is a fish in the water, and she pointed at the cover of Big Blue by Shelley Gill as soon as I took it out of my backpack. I was lucky enough to get a signed copy when Shelley Gill came to talk to my school about writing, Alaska, and animals. She was out of this world and such an inspiration to me and my friends. I was happy to share my book with Margo, and I liked that I knew even more about the story from Shelley's presentation. Not only did Margo love looking at the illustrations, but we all learned a lot as we read the book over and over again. Now she wants to go swimming, and if she could have whales in the water with her, even better!

Big Blue is based on true events that happened to author, Shelley Gill, and her daughter, Kye. Kye was an expert on whales and spent time learning and dreaming about them. One day when Kye was almost nine she told her mom that she didn't want stuff anymore, she wanted experiences. What she wanted most of all was to swim with a blue whale. The water in their home state of Alaska was too cold, so Kye suggested Mexico. Since Shelley worked driving a boat for marine biologists, she said she'd see if it could be arranged. Before long, they're in Mexico and it looks like there's a chance for dreams to come true. But will a whale present itself to them? Even if one does, will they really be able to swim with it? Go on an adventure with Shelley and Kye and you'll start thinking of all the experiences you'd like to have!

I recommend this book to those who love learning. I came away knowing a lot more than I did when I started reading. Also, people who like adventures will enjoy taking this book journey. Anyone who wants to hear an amazing presentation should have Shelley Gill come to their school. You will not be disappointed! The kids at my school are still talking about her!

Shelley Gill is the author of many books, and we are thrilled that we've had a chance to interview her, so stop back tomorrow to learn more about this author!

Happy Reading!
~F

Answer to Monday's Riddle: Big Blue Dives Deep...

Excellent guessing, Riddlers! Friday, Margo has a children's picture book to share with us about an ocean mystery, so stay tuned! See you all around the book block. ; ) ~ F

Unearthly tones from the deep sing songs that lull you into sleep. Giants swimming in the blue drift on Mother Nature's cue. Romantic mysteries, destinations unknown; grouped in pods or all alone. The largest seen of its kind, albeit notoriously hard to find.

What am I referring to? Answer: A Blue Whale! 

Fairday's Riddles: Volume I 
Make time to riddle and rhyme!

62 original riddles and illustrations
Available in all e-book formats