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Book Review

In the book Misguided by David Meyer, preteen Daniel Ford figures out a mystery that can ruin his town’s reputation.  He gathers his friends Cindy, Keeley, and Adrian to solve this mystery. After a bit of hesitation, his friends agree to help. This book is told from various points of view showing different characters’ responses to the same events.

 The founder of the town, August Braxton, gives Daniel and his friends confusing riddles so they can solve a mystery. They are asked to complete risky challenges, such as breaking into historical monuments, going down a well, and investigating a room covered in caskets.

 Daniel and his friends’ secret mission catches the eye of Trent Braxton, the town’s mayor.  After some research, Mr. Braxton realizes what they’re looking for and wants it for himself. He hires Harry Boker to investigate and steal the item the kids are trying to find. Harry agrees to the job under one condition– that he must end (kill) the kids after his investigation.  Mr. Braxton is overwhelmed by the excitement of Harry Boker’s agreement and says “yes,” without considering the murder plot he will have to carry out.

Everything is Dandelions and Cupcakes! Until the kids notice someone is following them…

Will Daniel and his friends ever get what they want? Or will they be murdered in the process?

                                                                        

Misguided by David Meyer has a way of telling a compelling story while sneaking in some amazing life lessons, such as showing forgiveness, selflessness, and loyalty. All of the scenes were important to the story and all of the puzzle pieces added up to creating a phenomenal novel! This mix of adventure, mystery, and fantasy was written in a way that makes you feel like you are in the story. 

I would recommend this for readers who enjoy realistic fiction with a fantasy touch. Personally, I believe this book is a bittersweet read that readers ages 9 and up will enjoy. Readers (and parents) need to be aware that there is violence, bullying, and negative character traits, such as disloyalty, back-stabbing and scandalous behavior.

 There are some Christian beliefs included throughout the story. In Chapter 12 Cindy Bloom says she believes in God and references different examples from the Bible. Later, Daniel also starts to believe in God. Sadly, I do not have enough spiritual intelligence to know what type of Christian Cindy Bloom is. I just know she is Christian because she states it in the book.

Misguided has a great way of showing you that even when things seem perfect on the outside, there can be something you would never expect to be happening on the inside. I think this story is a page turner that will keep you wondering what’s going to happen next. It’s a book which provides morals that kids should learn throughout their life. 

GIVEAWAY

David Meyer is giving away an autographed copy of Misguided to one fortunate reader. All you need to do is leave a comment to enter. U.S. addresses only. The giveaway ends on December 18 so you can give it to a favorite MG reader as a Christmas present!

MEET BROOKE WHITE

Brooke White is a 10-year-old 5th grader who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina. She has written two books, “ Cupcake the Lying Unicorn” and “Cookie Cat and the Tagalongs”. When Brooke isn’t reading or writing you’ll probably spot her sewing, scootering, swimming, or studying. She has been dreaming about becoming a book reviewer ever since she could read!