Menehunes Missing

Hawaiian Island Detective Club #2

by Cheryl Linn Martin

It's just a game, right? Wrong! The Menehune Hunt turns into eerie intrigue filled with danger as The Hawaiian Island Detective Club tackles their second genuine mystery.
The crazy clues make no sense at all, but Leilani is determined to figure out why the statues of Hawaii's treasured, Leprechaun-like little people are disappearing during the school fundraiser event, even if it means asking her pain-in-the-pants, ten-year-old brother, Kimo, for help. A fire, a visit from police, a creepy stakeout, too many suspects and an intense diversion involving Kimo and an irate storeowner hinders their investigation. Leilani worries that they'll never figure out who's stealing the odd, yet unremarkable little statues, and why. Are she and her friends in danger... possibly from someone they know?

142 pages, Paperback

First published January 29, 2013

Reviews

[Mary Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this second book in the Hawaiian Island Detective Series was, Leilani and her friends, Maile and Sam use their detective skills to figure out clues to a treasure hunt meant to raise money for their school. Small statues of the menehune (Hawaiian folktale people similar to Irish leprechauns)are hidden around town, and the clues can only be obtained in succession as the kids find each one. But the statues keep disappearing, and Leilani vows to find out who is stealing them and why. Her younger brother, Kimo, insists on helping and his part in the investigation is a fun addition to the story. I enjoyed the first book, Pineapples in Peril, but in my opinion, Cheryl Martin outdid herself on this book. I enjoyed reading it from beginning to end and believe most pre-teens will find it interesting and a joy to read.

[Jessica Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Martin's sharp writing, adorable characters and fast-paced mysteries are sure to hook young readers. Menehunes Missing is the second in the Hawaiian Island Detective club series which revolves around Leilani, Maile and Sam's exciting investigations. Even though I'm an adult, I really love these books. They're funny and have some great twists. If you're looking for a clean read for your elementary or middle schooler, this series is it.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent job by Cheryl Martin. This book was engaging from the start and she keeps the action coming right up until the dramatic finish. Buy this book for your kids but set aside some time to read it yourself. It is a good one. Can't wait for Ukuleles Undercover to come out!

[Sadie & Sophie Cuffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Menehunes Missing has Leilani and her friends back in the mystery solving business as they try to figure out why the little Hawaiian statues that were hidden for a contest are disappearing. It's said that the best authors are those you don't see, and Cheryl Martin easily has us believing Leilani wrote this book. The flavor of Hawaii is apparent on every page, from the opening pronunciation guide, to the just-right-amount of Pidgin English, to the flavor of the kids' favorite treats - it's all enticingly tropical. We love the interaction between Leilani and her little brother Kimo. Their relationship is realistic without being cruel, and goes straight to the heart without being overly gushy. Can't wait for the next book!