Paper Treasure

Lynn Manuel, the author of Return to Cranberry Farm, writes mystery
novels for young adults.

Charlie and Joey Bradford arrive in Colville with their parents to sell
the house that was left to them in the boys’ grandfather’s will.
They are shocked to discover that the house has been ransacked, although
nothing appears to be missing. Charlie and his neighbor Lisa Kirby
determine to get to the bottom of things and discover why someone is so
desperate to lay hands on some worthless shares in an old mining
company.

Stephenson has written a purely plot-driven novel, steering away from
any serious treatment of death and the effect their grandfather’s loss
would surely have had on the Bradford boys. The story does, however,
contain all the elements of a good mystery. The action is fast-paced and
the dialogue is realistic. Paper Treasure is sure to be enjoyed by
readers in grades 5 to 7.