The Secret Notebook by D A D’Aurelio
Release: August 1st 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Capstone Editions
Source: Netgalley
Synopsis:
Riley Green is certain her lie detector pen will improve her status in a school full of kids from the most powerful families of Washington, D.C. But her plan collapses when her invention idea is stolen, her favorite teacher goes missing, and mysterious threats begin to appear around capital. Before vanishing, Riley’s teacher entrusts her with her most prized possession, the lost notebook of Nikola Tesla, legendary inventor and scientist. Now Riley and her friends must protect the notebook from thieves who want to steal the details it holds about a dangerous invention. When Riley discovers another secret, she must decode a mysterious message before it’s too late. Her teacher’s life depends on it.
The Secret Notebook Review:
A BIG Thank You to Netgalley and Capstone Editions for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy of “The Secret Notebook” for my review.
I loved reading this book! I love reading about science, technology and history, and loved how the author included it in the plot. Moreover, I was not really familiar with Nikola Tesla, so I was completely engrossed in reading this book. I really enjoyed how the author incorporates Tesla’s researches into the mystery plot. It is always fun to read stories where real life is mixed with fiction that makes the book more interesting. The author also provides a nice summary of the scientist’s real life in the end. This made me want to research and read more about him.
Moving to the characters, I really liked Riley as the main character. It was unique to see a protagonist in a middle grade novel become a criminologist. Similarly, I really liked how the author made the profession of a criminologist sound interesting and not morbid. Also, I liked Riley’s invention and how she came up with ideas to solve the mystery (even if they were not good sometimes). Charlotte, Henry and even Freddy are wonderful as supporting characters. I especially liked Freddy a lot and thought he was hilarious and goofy. It was a bit strange how quickly Charlotte becomes close friends with Riley almost immediately. But I ended liking Charlotte a lot too, so I’m not complaining.
Overall, I really hope this book turns out to be the first in the series! To be honest, I can see a lot of potential for new adventures with Riley and her friends. I think this is a wonderful book that would encourage younger readers to get interest in science and dip into history of famous scientists.
