Cluedle – The Case of the Golden Pomegranate by Hartigan Browne

It is time to solve another mystery, this time on board a ship in the Case of the Golden Pomegranate. Alota Vibratto’s safe has been broken into and it is up to you to solve the puzzles and follow the trail of the golden pomegranate.

The second book in the series follows the same format as the first whereby in order to solve the crime, you have to solve a series of puzzles, each one leading you towards the culprit. Again, there is a good range of puzzles to appeal to all age ranges – this is the perfect book to read and solve together as a family.

I really liked the setting and found it very educational for younger children with an introduction to the Ancient Greek civilisation. Younger history fans will love the use of Greek letters and gods to help solve the puzzles. I also loved how there is an element of map reading involved with some puzzles requiring a knowledge of co-ordinates. Although some of the puzzles can be challenging, there are clues given throughout which are really helpful.

A great second book in the series!

With thanks to Macmillan Children’s Books and Net Galley for my copy.

Cluedle – The Case of the Dumpleton Diamond by Hartigan Browne

You are now a member of the Hartigan Browne Detective Agency, Browne being arguably Britain’s greatest detective. His success in previous cases has led to him being overworked and in need of some assistance – this is where you come in. Dave the dog has been pup-napped and it is up to you to find out why and who the culprit is. This is the first of many puzzles that will, hopefully, lead you to the discovery of the Dumpleton Diamond.

Although this has been published by Macmillan Children’s Books, it is most definitely not just for children. The puzzles are challenging enough for adults to get enjoyment from with clues to help younger children if they get a bit stuck. There is a good range of puzzles, from codes to logic problems, picture puzzles to anagrams so that there is something here for everyone.

The story that runs through the book is a good one and kept me engaged throughout – this is one of those books where you keep telling yourself, ‘one more page…’ until you have finished it in a couple of sittings!

If you are looking for a slightly different read, one that will get the old grey matter working, then this is the book for you. Great fun for all the family, I am pleased to see that there is already a second book in the pipeline!

With thanks to Macmillan Children’s Books and Net Galley for my copy.