November 2024 Book Reviews by Mary

The Bletchley Riddle
by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

In the summer of 1940, two puzzle-loving siblings, Jakob and Lizze Novis, work at Britain’s codebreaking factory at Bletchley Park. Not only are they both working on secret tasks at the Park, but Lizzie is also determined to solve the mysterious disappearance of their mother. Full of code-cracking fun, mysterious characters, and determined kids, this sibling story will surely be a hit with the middle-grade crowd.

I was excited to read this one, especially when I saw that it was a collaborative effort of two excellent authors. It did not disappoint! I have always enjoyed how excellent middle-grade history introduces me to little-known pieces of history that inspire me to explore more facts outside the story.

And what reader can resist secrets, spies, and code-breaking? The story’s backdrop focuses on the code-breaking side of WW2 and the invention of the Enigma machine. I enjoyed learning about the day’s technology and how code writing and cracking worked.

The only aspect of the story I didn’t love was Lizzie’s character, who was a bit immature and overbearing at times. She does experience a crush, though the two kids only admit to “liking” each other—entirely appropriate in a middle-grade book. I was surprised the romance happened with the younger sibling, but perhaps that helped keep the content tame.

The rotating POV frequently switches from Jakob to Lizzie and back again. It switched a little too often for me, and I didn’t always feel like we spent enough time with one character before a change. Eventually, I adjusted and got the rhythm down, but there were moments I wished we stayed with one character a bit longer.

The ending was a bit of a stretch but still fun. I think the target audience would really enjoy the adventure and excitement of this story.