Nick Fitzmorgan must use all his detective skills to find his father, who has disappeared. Nick’s father left him obscure clues to his whereabouts, and Nick with his superb detective skills unravels the mystery. Admittedly, some of the reasoning to decipher the clues is far-fetched, but it is logical, and young students will love it. Nick keeps a journal as he tracks down his father.

As the reader follows Nick on his quest (which takes him to Mount Everest), Nick learns detective skills and forensic science. Of course, as with all good mysteries, the surprise ending is logical yet not expected. Included are also tidbits about private investigation. For example, the book includes a small article on the world’s first private eye, Allan Pinkerton.

Two other appealing aspects of the book are the illustrations and the layout of the book. The illustrations remind one of children’s drawings, and the print and layout of the book has the feel of a journal.

The book has a nice size and feel for young readers. It is destined to be a staple in classrooms across America. As an adult reader, I enjoyed the book.