But when Allyn and Mitchell travel around Ireland, they find themselves in the middle of a frightening plot. Twelve-year-old Allyn discovers a mysterious network, ready to commit a crime, and she and Mitchell must risk their lives to get clues and outwit the criminals! Will they succeed? Everything is at stake--the life of Allyn's hero and the future of Ireland's teens!
In addition to hilarious illustrations and three maps of Ireland, the book contains fourteen black-and-white and four color photographs of Irish scenery. Its 6"x 9" size; stunning, film-laminated cover; and 220 pages on high-quality 60lb. paper make this a gift to delight children, parents, educators, librarians, and anyone who enjoys reading about the spectacular Emerald Isle.
Young readers learn the geography and special characteristics of the many regions of Ireland: Bunratty Castle and the Limerick area; the amazing Cliffs of Moher; the rocky and almost lifeless "Burren"; the beauty of County Galway; the fishing villages of Donegal; and the busy city of Dublin.
Fast-paced and fun, this novel keeps the interest of even struggling or reluctant readers. In the first few chapters, nine-year-old Mitchell's hilarious "mistakes" draw children into the story. One incident involves Mitchell's blue lizard, named "Marley's Ghost" for its blue skin. Another involves flying food and dancing pizza toppings.
By the time the Gallagher family arrives in Ireland, readers feel that they know these children and truly care what happens to them. Becoming sleuths, twelve-year-old Allyn and her brother Mitchell piece together clues about an international crime network and the back-up band for Allyn's favorite pop-country singer. The climax occurs at his concert in Ireland.
The Irish Tourist Board, which has endorsed the book for its ability to entertain while educating juveniles about Ireland, provided eighteen photographs which bring each setting to life--treating children to an exciting story in a real environment. As the story progresses, Allyn learns to appreciate both the value of having a brother and the material benefits that most Americans take for granted. For Allyn and Mitchell Gallagher, this vacation is the learning experience of their lives.
With its easy, fun dialogue and wholesome content, the novel is entirely appropriate for readers of any age. Unique among juvenile books, no other novel for this age group describes today's Ireland, as seen through the eyes of two American children. For young readers, this makes Ireland real and accessible.
More affordable than any hardcover yet packed with goodies for children, this sturdy paperback is the ideal gift for any reader.
