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The Traitor's Gate

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The Traitor's Gate
By Avi
Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2007. 351 pgs. Chapter book.

After his father is thrown in debtor’s prison to a man he owes nothing, it’s up to fourteen-year-old John Huffman to unravel the mystery of why. Problems arise when he realizes his father has lied, mysterious strangers appear, he’s being followed, and everyone is not always who they say they are.

An intriguing story and fun mystery, Avi does a great job using the voice of the mid-19th century. An author’s note at the end shows the comparisons of his story (including names of characters) to Charles Dickens and many of his works. The ending is a little underplayed and almost disappointing, and sometimes John seems a lot younger than 14. However, overall it’s a fun read and a great recommendation for a mystery – especially for boys.

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