Customer Reviews

Mysterious Code (Trixie Belden)

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I am a big fan of the Trixie Belden series-- while idealistic, they're generally a lot of fun.

However, this is Kathryn Kenny's first book in the series, and it shows. The plotline is fine, but so much of the rest is off that I was frustrated reading it. There are a lot of noticable contrasts in the characters, established facts, and writing itself between this book and, quite honestly, every single one in the series.

A lot of the characters rebounded between being entirely out of character or being way into character to the point where it was unrealistically exaggerated; scenes like Trixie needing to shop for a dress and then attend Diana's party were irritating, as was Mrs. Belden's sudden desire to make Trixie into more of a lady (to the point where she was almost derogatory towards her) because they came out of nowhere.

What irritated me most about this book, however, was the writing itself. It was far too blatant-- Kenny did not rely on anyone who read this book to have read the first few and already have a basic understanding of the established characters. Even with new readers, she seems to assume they lack the intelligence to read between the lines and understand the character's motivation on their own terms, a process which is essential in any decent novel. Phrases like "Jim really liked Trixie because" or "Mart certainly liked Diana" (and I'm paraphrasing, but only in the text itself; the format is the same) made me want to slam the book shut and quit reading because they were so irritating. It's as if every single character's opinions needed to be explained through text rather than actions or dialogue to make them clear, which I thought was completely stupid.

Even scenes like parties at the Belden's house, which were described as "fun" and were, to a point, were again irritating because the characters were off.

To wind this up, I was very dissappointed in this book. I can honestly say I prefer every single other one in the series to it.

I love this book! It is one of my favorites because it is really exciting and full of adventure! I love this book! I liked the plot and how they made it so exciting! At first, I thought I wouldn't like it because the book had a new author, then after I read the first chapter, I loved it! This book is 5 stars!

Concerned about vandalism at the school, the Sleepyside Junior-Senior High School board threatens to dissolve the Bob-Whites of the Glen and other 'secret societies,' so the kids decide to show how civic-minded they are by holding an antique show as a fundraiser for UNICEF. (Say, how can a school board get away with regulating kids' private activities?! This is America!)

This is a satisfying Trixie Belden story (except that the vandalism theme is forgotten after the first chapters) -- where friends and daily activities are more important than the nominal 'mystery.' The 'code' turns out to be nothing much, but 'Trixie Belden and the Antique Show Fundraiser' wouldn't have had much zing, would it? Still, there's plenty of adventure -- somebody seems intent on sabotaging the BWG clubhouse and stealing the loaned antiques! Blizzards! Faithful dogs! Criminals and critical illness! Games and popcorn around the fireplace! And this time when Trixie dresses up for a party, she means it and even enjoys herself.

The Bob-Whites are crushed when Mr. Stratton gives them the news. The school has been hit by a string of petty vandalism and robbery, so the board has decided that secret societies will have to disband. Fortunately, Trixie comes up with a plan to save their club. To prove they are worthy, they decide to put on an antique show to benefit UNICEF. Not only does this mean lots of hard work, but it means constant run-ins with thieves out to steal the valuable stuff for sale and display. Now Trixie must track down the culprits in time to save the sale.

This book is the first book that series creator Julie Campbell didn't write and it shows. There seems to be more of a conflict between Trixie and her family and friends about her detective work. Still, this book has some of the best "fun" scenes of the series. And it introduces the idea of the Bob-Whites doing charity events and their hangout Wimpy's, both staples in later books in the series.

When I was a kid, I totally bought the premise, but as an adult I realize just how out there it is. Still, it does set up a decent if not nail biting story. This qualifies more as an adventure rather then mystery, but it's still fun to read and I enjoy it.

While Julie Campbell's touch is missed, the series takes a decided leap into new territory with this fun adventure. Another one sure to make fans out of any kid.

My friend and I were talking about these books--we had both read them as pre-teens, she in Michigan and me in Nevada. After going on for hours about how much we enjoyed and missed them, I had to see if they were now available to buy--for a long time they were not in print. I would like to have the entire collection for my library and my 5 year old niece. I hope she likes Trixie like I did! Interesting stories, but nice old-fashioned values too.

This book is a wonderful read for all ages! Trixie's love for the club shines through in this book,and the romance between Trixie and Jim also shows through a little bit. I loved this book and would recomened in for all ages!