One False Note (The 39 Clues Series #2) by Gordon Korman

Children's Literature

Family continues to betray and prey on kin in this second "The 39 Clues" series book, which finds protagonists Amy and Dan Cahill aboard a train en route to Vienna, Austria. Pursuing a clue regarding composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the siblings find themselves wandering through Salzburg's catacombs. After escaping a dangerous cave-in, the pair eludes angry monks and competitors and travels to Venice, Italy, to follow a lead. Suspense heightens as rival relatives and new foes chase the duo through Venetian canals. This title offers readers the constant action they expect, but stereotyped characters, unrealistic scenarios, and predictable coincidences weaken storytelling. The supposedly malevolent Madrigals are mentioned with no further explanation. Korman's distinct style is occasionally evident in this formulaic book, particularly when giving voice to boys. Humorous scenes depict characters catering to Saladin, their finicky cat traveling companion. Historical information establishes clues, red herrings, settings, and characterizations and is often presented carelessly for entertainment. References to Mozart's sister Nannerl note she was as musically talented as her brother but unappreciated to emphasize Amy's piano skills. The series' premise that the Cahill family includes most major historical figures is implausible and misleading. This book's inaccurate claim that 18th-century painter Gilbert Stuart's great-grandmother was named Gertrude Cahill is irresponsible to cite as fact, especially when some readers might consult these books as sources for history homework. Reviewer: Elizabeth D. Schafer

School Library Journal

Gr 4–7—Following Rick Riordan's first book in the projected 10-title series, The Maze of Bones (SLJ, Feb. 2009, p. 58), Gordon Korman has written the second installment (Scholastic, 2008) about Amy and Dan Cahill's quest for the 39 clues left by their deceased wealthy and eccentric grandmother who has promised to reward the winner with unimaginable riches. Those unfamiliar with the first book will miss out on some of the past history, but there is enough background given here to ensure that listeners will enjoy the mystery and adventure. Dan, 11, is impetuous and resourceful, while Amy, 14, is pedantic but brilliant. Narrator David Pittu, with only slight voice and accent variations, brings to life their constant squabbles as well as the threats by their nefarious relatives, such as a scheming rock star and his father, a former KGB agent, an entire family of enemies, and an elderly "gentleman" with evil intentions. The orphans, on the run from the Massachusetts Child Protection Program, are supported by their patient and resourceful companion Nellie and their grandmother's cat, Saladin. Pittu is almost breathless as he describes vehicle races on the road and along the canals of Venice. A lot of historical information is presented about Venice, Mozart, Marie Antoinette, and more. A fun listen.—Edith Ching, Washington Latin Public Charter School, DC

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