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The World-Famous Nine #1
The World-Famous Nine
In this mystery, Zander is determined to do whatever it takes to save his grandmother’s nineteen-story out-of-this-world department store.
Zander Olinga’s grandmother is the owner of the fabled Number Nine Plaza, the spectacular nineteen-story skyscraper. The Nine, as it’s called, has everything imaginable, including a massive Ferris wheel on its rooftop, monorail tracks suspended from its ceiling, and twenty-five glass elevators. But there’s something evil looming in the shadows, and strange accidents start befalling the guests. When Zander and his friend Natasha come across a series of inscriptions hidden throughout the walls of The Nine, they discover that the clues will lead them to a magical object which protects the store’s very existence. With the future of The Nine on the line, the pair are determined to recover the mysterious object before the luxury plaza and its many guests are destroyed.
Zander Olinga’s grandmother is the owner of the fabled Number Nine Plaza, the spectacular nineteen-story skyscraper. The Nine, as it’s called, has everything imaginable, including a massive Ferris wheel on its rooftop, monorail tracks suspended from its ceiling, and twenty-five glass elevators. But there’s something evil looming in the shadows, and strange accidents start befalling the guests. When Zander and his friend Natasha come across a series of inscriptions hidden throughout the walls of The Nine, they discover that the clues will lead them to a magical object which protects the store’s very existence. With the future of The Nine on the line, the pair are determined to recover the mysterious object before the luxury plaza and its many guests are destroyed.
400 pages, Paperback
Published January 30, 2024
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3212 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
January 11, 2024
E ARC provided through Netgalley, with help from the author
In 2012, young Zander Olinga gets to spend five weeks with his grandmother at her fabulous department store The Number Nine Plaza. Started in the 1800s, the store has been in the family for a long time, and run by only four women in the family. It's located in Novatrosk, and is not only architecturally significant, but also has an amazingly wide range of products as well as a fascinating history. Zander's mother was never interested in the store, and is happy to be a college professor; she and Zander's father are spending time on a research trip while he is with his grandmother. There are a lot of employees who have been at the store for a long time, and we also meet Natasha Novikov, whose step father, Mr. Lukovsky, does plumbing in the building. She swings high above the heads of the diners in several of the store restaurants, which amazes Zander, who has a decided fear of heights. One of the symbols of the store is the mandala; there are several around the premises, although Zander finds out that it is approaching the 90th anniversary of when the most important one went missing. There is some suspicion that it was stolen by Vladimir, who was under the dark force of Darkbloom. There are some odd clues scattered throughout the store, and when bad things start happening, Natasha and Zander set out to find the plaque and uncover the mystery. This, of course, means that Zander has to travel all over the store and get to know its fascinating departments, such as the penguin exhibit, the Sew What You Want department, the Tube Room (for the pneumatic communication tubes!) and the employee lounge, where a quiet man will wake up employees if they are taking a break. As near tragedies like a Ferris wheel malfunction and electrical disturbances continue, and clues are left with "the crimson stitch", Zander singles out Fenton Herpolsheimer, who retired years ago but who has been seen in the building. There is also the suspicious Ludmilla and Sergei, who met at the Dnipropetrovshchyna Art Institute. Will Zander and Natasha be able to make sense of the family history they've uncovered in order to find the lost plaque and stop the attacks on their beloved department store?
Strengths: I was just thinking about malls and department stores before I read this; my mother adored the mall, and actually worked in a department store where the payments were sent to the office in pneumatic tubes. I also have a friend whose parents ran a department store in a small town, and I spent a year working at the downtown Cincinnati Lazarus, so this made me feel nostalgic. I can't think of any other middle grade books that are set in department stores, but they are rather magical places. The Nine is even more so, with it's fascinating departments for art and odd items, and the building deserves to have a map on the end papers. I loved the history, especially the addition of nine floors, and didn't get to see nearly enough of the penthouse apartment where Zander's grandmother lived! A department store is the perfect place for tweens to have free rein. They can talk to all of the people working, snoop into nooks and crannies, and get delicious food at the restaurants. Of course, this has a tiny bit of darkness, with the accidents and backhistory of Darkbloom, but that just adds to the excitement. I'm not sure if young readers will have seen the television shows Selfridges or The Paradise, but The World-Famous Nine manages to deliver the magic of those earlier department stores while updating the time period a bit.
Weaknesses: I was unsure of where Novatrosk was located. It seems to be not far from Pittsburgh, but there were so many Russian sounding names that I was a bit confused. There wasn't a language barrier, and Natasha is a fan of sports teams in the US, so I feel like I was missing something.
What I really think: Fans of quirky, clue oriented mysteries like Mr. Lemoncello's Library and Carmen's Floors will enjoy this virtual shopping trip, and may need to hunt down some mint chocolate candy!
In 2012, young Zander Olinga gets to spend five weeks with his grandmother at her fabulous department store The Number Nine Plaza. Started in the 1800s, the store has been in the family for a long time, and run by only four women in the family. It's located in Novatrosk, and is not only architecturally significant, but also has an amazingly wide range of products as well as a fascinating history. Zander's mother was never interested in the store, and is happy to be a college professor; she and Zander's father are spending time on a research trip while he is with his grandmother. There are a lot of employees who have been at the store for a long time, and we also meet Natasha Novikov, whose step father, Mr. Lukovsky, does plumbing in the building. She swings high above the heads of the diners in several of the store restaurants, which amazes Zander, who has a decided fear of heights. One of the symbols of the store is the mandala; there are several around the premises, although Zander finds out that it is approaching the 90th anniversary of when the most important one went missing. There is some suspicion that it was stolen by Vladimir, who was under the dark force of Darkbloom. There are some odd clues scattered throughout the store, and when bad things start happening, Natasha and Zander set out to find the plaque and uncover the mystery. This, of course, means that Zander has to travel all over the store and get to know its fascinating departments, such as the penguin exhibit, the Sew What You Want department, the Tube Room (for the pneumatic communication tubes!) and the employee lounge, where a quiet man will wake up employees if they are taking a break. As near tragedies like a Ferris wheel malfunction and electrical disturbances continue, and clues are left with "the crimson stitch", Zander singles out Fenton Herpolsheimer, who retired years ago but who has been seen in the building. There is also the suspicious Ludmilla and Sergei, who met at the Dnipropetrovshchyna Art Institute. Will Zander and Natasha be able to make sense of the family history they've uncovered in order to find the lost plaque and stop the attacks on their beloved department store?
Strengths: I was just thinking about malls and department stores before I read this; my mother adored the mall, and actually worked in a department store where the payments were sent to the office in pneumatic tubes. I also have a friend whose parents ran a department store in a small town, and I spent a year working at the downtown Cincinnati Lazarus, so this made me feel nostalgic. I can't think of any other middle grade books that are set in department stores, but they are rather magical places. The Nine is even more so, with it's fascinating departments for art and odd items, and the building deserves to have a map on the end papers. I loved the history, especially the addition of nine floors, and didn't get to see nearly enough of the penthouse apartment where Zander's grandmother lived! A department store is the perfect place for tweens to have free rein. They can talk to all of the people working, snoop into nooks and crannies, and get delicious food at the restaurants. Of course, this has a tiny bit of darkness, with the accidents and backhistory of Darkbloom, but that just adds to the excitement. I'm not sure if young readers will have seen the television shows Selfridges or The Paradise, but The World-Famous Nine manages to deliver the magic of those earlier department stores while updating the time period a bit.
Weaknesses: I was unsure of where Novatrosk was located. It seems to be not far from Pittsburgh, but there were so many Russian sounding names that I was a bit confused. There wasn't a language barrier, and Natasha is a fan of sports teams in the US, so I feel like I was missing something.
What I really think: Fans of quirky, clue oriented mysteries like Mr. Lemoncello's Library and Carmen's Floors will enjoy this virtual shopping trip, and may need to hunt down some mint chocolate candy!
September 8, 2024
I’m a moderator for the Harbor Springs festival of the book and I read all of the authors books in my panel. But out of all the books I had to read, this was my absolute favorite! At first I thought it was some weird book about superheroes or something, but it’s a fantastic middle-grade mystery. Gutterson is an artist, both with words and with a pen! He drew all of the mandalas in the book! And those look HARD! I loved this book and I think you will too! ❤️❤️❤️
June 7, 2024
I have never reviewed a children’s book before, but here goes. I read this to my 9 year old son and he enjoyed it! Lots of dialog, vividly described scenes, and a mystery to boot! It was a little cheesy sometimes, but that is my feeling, not my son’s. I think children would enjoy this book, though I’d never read it again. Actually, I don’t think I’m interested in the sequel, either.
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December 28, 2025Do tej książki podchodziłam ze sporymi oczekiwaniami, ponieważ kilka lat temu do gustu bardzo przypadła mi seria „Winterhouse” tego samego autora. „Ta słynna Dziewiątka” trochę jednak mnie zawiodła i już tłumaczę dlaczego.
Fabularnie nie było źle. Wszystko się mniej więcej trzymało kupy, czasem akcja miała co prawda za dużo, jak dla mnie, przestojów no i liczyłam na bardziej rozbudowane zakończenie, ale było również cały czas intrygująco, więc chciało się czytać dalej. Miejsce akcji też niczego sobie. Powiem więcej, pomysł na Plazę Numer Dziewięć był najlepszym w tej książce. Autorowi udało się stworzyć galerię handlową, do której pobiegłabym w podskokach, mimo że normalnie unikam galerii jak tylko się da. Szczególnie, że w niej były nie tylko interesujące sklepy, ale również zagadki i tajemnice! No i byłoby miło i sympatycznie, gdyby nie dwie rzeczy, które tutaj totalnie nie wypaliły, czyli: dialogi i główny bohater, co niejako się ze sobą łączy.
Zacznę od naszego Zandera, który co prawda lubił rysować (co podkreślał wielokrotnie) i czytać, ale oprócz tego był wybitnie wręcz nudny, grzeczny i uprzejmy. Czy to dobrze? Może, ale bądźmy szczerzy, że nawet w prawdziwym życiu osoba, która choć raz przez ponad tydzień porządnie się nie zdenerwuje nie istnieje. A Zander ani nie zażartował, ani nie tupnął nogą raz na jakiś czas. I chyba to właśnie przełożyło się na wyjątkowo sztywne i drętwe dialogi pomiędzy nim, a resztą postaci. Odrobinę charakteru miała tu chyba tylko Natasza, reszta postaci z pozoru wydawała się interesująca, ale ostatecznie okazywała się tylko niewiarygodnie uprzejma. Nie wiem więc, co za atmosferę ma to miejsce, ale jeśli faktycznie tak działa na ludzi, to większość ludzi powinna być tam raz na jakiś czas wysyłana.
Fabularnie nie było źle. Wszystko się mniej więcej trzymało kupy, czasem akcja miała co prawda za dużo, jak dla mnie, przestojów no i liczyłam na bardziej rozbudowane zakończenie, ale było również cały czas intrygująco, więc chciało się czytać dalej. Miejsce akcji też niczego sobie. Powiem więcej, pomysł na Plazę Numer Dziewięć był najlepszym w tej książce. Autorowi udało się stworzyć galerię handlową, do której pobiegłabym w podskokach, mimo że normalnie unikam galerii jak tylko się da. Szczególnie, że w niej były nie tylko interesujące sklepy, ale również zagadki i tajemnice! No i byłoby miło i sympatycznie, gdyby nie dwie rzeczy, które tutaj totalnie nie wypaliły, czyli: dialogi i główny bohater, co niejako się ze sobą łączy.
Zacznę od naszego Zandera, który co prawda lubił rysować (co podkreślał wielokrotnie) i czytać, ale oprócz tego był wybitnie wręcz nudny, grzeczny i uprzejmy. Czy to dobrze? Może, ale bądźmy szczerzy, że nawet w prawdziwym życiu osoba, która choć raz przez ponad tydzień porządnie się nie zdenerwuje nie istnieje. A Zander ani nie zażartował, ani nie tupnął nogą raz na jakiś czas. I chyba to właśnie przełożyło się na wyjątkowo sztywne i drętwe dialogi pomiędzy nim, a resztą postaci. Odrobinę charakteru miała tu chyba tylko Natasza, reszta postaci z pozoru wydawała się interesująca, ale ostatecznie okazywała się tylko niewiarygodnie uprzejma. Nie wiem więc, co za atmosferę ma to miejsce, ale jeśli faktycznie tak działa na ludzi, to większość ludzi powinna być tam raz na jakiś czas wysyłana.
July 14, 2025
This book dragged on impossibly long, with many pages being filled with way too much fluffy detail. It felt like I was reading it forever, which is unfortunate because I thought this would be a good book to help me out of a book slump, but it did the opposite.
The writing often felt weird and disconnected, and it was weirdly demonic considering it’s a children’s book? Would not recommend.
The writing often felt weird and disconnected, and it was weirdly demonic considering it’s a children’s book? Would not recommend.
January 30, 2024
During the summer break, Zander Olinga spends his time with his grandmother, who's the owner of Number Nine Plaza - a magnificent 19-story skyscraper that also serves as their family's department store, The Nines. However, strange events begin to occur at The Nines, and Zander, along with his sidekick Natasha, stumble upon a legend that could potentially bring doom to the beloved building. They race against time to uncover the secrets that Zander's uncle had left behind in the hopes of saving the building.
At The Nine, Guterson creates a whimsical world with a variety of rooms - The Magic Emporium, Sweets of the Nine, the 360 restaurant, and the Tube Room (control center) to name a few. The book's illustrations effectively bring Guterson's vision to life, making it perfect for young readers, especially those aged 8-12.
Zander and Natasha are terrific characters. Both are curious to unlock the mystery behind the magical stolen plates. The puzzles, word games, and mysterious inscriptions play into the old legends and Darkbloom, the evil spirit lurking in The Nine. And Zander and Natasha’s detective work oozes with Scooby-Doo vibes (those menacing kids). But unfortunately, no Scooby.
The cast of characters is vast. Luckily, Guterson provides a galley in the back of the book, along with a map of the floors. So I recommend reading the physical book so you fully immerse yourself in the world of The Nine. Perfect for fans of Mr. Lemoncello’s Library, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, or the board game Clue. 3.75⭐️
At The Nine, Guterson creates a whimsical world with a variety of rooms - The Magic Emporium, Sweets of the Nine, the 360 restaurant, and the Tube Room (control center) to name a few. The book's illustrations effectively bring Guterson's vision to life, making it perfect for young readers, especially those aged 8-12.
Zander and Natasha are terrific characters. Both are curious to unlock the mystery behind the magical stolen plates. The puzzles, word games, and mysterious inscriptions play into the old legends and Darkbloom, the evil spirit lurking in The Nine. And Zander and Natasha’s detective work oozes with Scooby-Doo vibes (those menacing kids). But unfortunately, no Scooby.
The cast of characters is vast. Luckily, Guterson provides a galley in the back of the book, along with a map of the floors. So I recommend reading the physical book so you fully immerse yourself in the world of The Nine. Perfect for fans of Mr. Lemoncello’s Library, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, or the board game Clue. 3.75⭐️
August 22, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5. When Zander is dropped off by his parents for an extended stay with his grandmother, he is swept up into the world of her insane department store, Number Nine Plaza (“The Nine” for short). There, he marvels at all nineteen stories of goods, services, and entertainment. He is also determined to figure out why strange accidents and odd occurrences keep happening around the store. This is a fun mystery for fans of the Mr. Lemoncello and Book Scavenger series. Recommended for grades 4-7.
February 10, 2024
Genre: Middle Grade Mystery
Synopsis: Zander’s grandmother runs an emporium with many secrets. When Zander visits for a few weeks he tries to find a lost family artifact.
This was a cute mystery story with a few riddles and some adventure. I really like the world building and the magical feel of the department store. There was a mysterious villain and villainous activities afoot. I wanted more riddles and puzzles.
Overall all, solid MG mystery that was easy to read.
Thank you Hachette for the gifted copy! 🏢
Synopsis: Zander’s grandmother runs an emporium with many secrets. When Zander visits for a few weeks he tries to find a lost family artifact.
This was a cute mystery story with a few riddles and some adventure. I really like the world building and the magical feel of the department store. There was a mysterious villain and villainous activities afoot. I wanted more riddles and puzzles.
Overall all, solid MG mystery that was easy to read.
Thank you Hachette for the gifted copy! 🏢
June 18, 2024
The World Famous Nine by Ben Guterson is a truly enchanting read! The Nine Plaza is nothing short of amazing, with its magical charm and intricate details that transport you to another world. The friendship between Zander and Natasha is beautifully portrayed, adding depth and warmth to the story. The mystery left by Vladimir keeps you on the edge of your seat, making it impossible to put the book down. A must-read for anyone who loves a blend of adventure, magic, and mystery!
March 15, 2024
Definitely fun. A wonderful book for anyone who wished they could live in the mall!!
April 10, 2024
this book was fine but below my reading level
June 15, 2024
this is a book that if i had read in elementary school i would have been CRAZY OBSESSED but even now, i still enjoyed that 😙
November 4, 2025
4.5⭐️
November 10, 2023
I like mysteries to be solved by more than one character. A boy and and girl follow clues in an enclosed space like a house, hotel, or this case a department store. There is history to unveil, different characters to meet, mysteries and clues to be solved and evil characters to be stopped. The boy is an artist bookworm who will overcome his fears and the girl is a fun, energetic chatty girl. Every chapter is exciting to the very last paragraph.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for this e-ARC.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for this e-ARC.
April 13, 2024
I try not to judge middle grade books too harshly. For one, my students need to read more, so even if I, a 39 year old, don’t like it, it doesn’t necessarily mean that one of the kids I teach won’t love it. I know plenty of them that would really like this book. They’d think the Nine was fun and quirky. They’d like the cast of diverse characters, especially Natasha. They’d probably dig the supernatural aspect of it. It has all the trappings of a great mystery novel. But it just wasn’t my cup of tea. I liked the Nine, but I wanted it to be more than just a nineteen story department store. I thought it was going to be enchanted like Hogwarts and way more quirky than Wonka’s factory and it wasn’t. I liked the cast of characters but there were so many of them. And so many weren’t necessary. I liked the mystery that needed solved but the supernatural demon storyline was lackluster and honestly, not necessary. No one needed to be possessed by a spirit for this to be an interesting book. It already had that ability and then that storyline was introduced and I was just confused. The ending was wah wah and even the very last page seemed summed up. I read it twice through to make sure I hadn’t missed something. It didn’t even set us up for a potential second book. So, while my students may enjoy this, I didn’t. And I’m really sad about that. It could have been so much more.
February 26, 2025
RECOMMEND WITH CAUTION:
Guterson’s “Winterhouse” series is pretty popular but I didn’t love it. I was willing to give this one a try because he’s a good writer and this was on quite a few lists.
Although the setting was unique, the mystery was fun, there were just two many weird things that went on in this one. The real bad guy is a “spirit” called Dark Bloom. It never makes an appearance except in people’s minds. It tempts people to try and destroy the Nine. I could kind of get behind it because you *could* make a case that it acts like Sin and reminded me of Screwtape Letters, just on the human side.
But the reason I really can’t recommend this one is that a character “reads” cards. They are normal playing cards and the character shuffles them, spreads them out, flips over the ones he has a “intuition” about and is able to tell the future of sorts. It was an odd scene and definitely not necessary so I’m not sure why it’s there.
Guterson’s “Winterhouse” series is pretty popular but I didn’t love it. I was willing to give this one a try because he’s a good writer and this was on quite a few lists.
Although the setting was unique, the mystery was fun, there were just two many weird things that went on in this one. The real bad guy is a “spirit” called Dark Bloom. It never makes an appearance except in people’s minds. It tempts people to try and destroy the Nine. I could kind of get behind it because you *could* make a case that it acts like Sin and reminded me of Screwtape Letters, just on the human side.
But the reason I really can’t recommend this one is that a character “reads” cards. They are normal playing cards and the character shuffles them, spreads them out, flips over the ones he has a “intuition” about and is able to tell the future of sorts. It was an odd scene and definitely not necessary so I’m not sure why it’s there.
September 29, 2024
3.5
Ik las de Nederlandse vertaling van Imme Dros die deze week verscheen bij uitgeverij Leopold.
Vermakelijk boek met leuke personages in een originele setting (net als Winterhuishotel, de schrijver heeft een goed gevoel voor leuke lokaties).
De bad guy Darkbloom is als ‘geest’ wel heel ongrijpbaar en daarmee een wat gemakkelijke truc van de schrijver. Ook zijn menselijke handlagers zijn wel heel duidelijk en eenvoudig te ontmaskeren waardoor je de ontknoping van verre aan ziet komen. Niettemin een fijn jeugdboek voor 9+ met een leuke geheime code om te kraken! Ik denk dat veel kinderen dit, net als ik een geweldig leuk boek zullen vinden.
Ik las de Nederlandse vertaling van Imme Dros die deze week verscheen bij uitgeverij Leopold.
Vermakelijk boek met leuke personages in een originele setting (net als Winterhuishotel, de schrijver heeft een goed gevoel voor leuke lokaties).
De bad guy Darkbloom is als ‘geest’ wel heel ongrijpbaar en daarmee een wat gemakkelijke truc van de schrijver. Ook zijn menselijke handlagers zijn wel heel duidelijk en eenvoudig te ontmaskeren waardoor je de ontknoping van verre aan ziet komen. Niettemin een fijn jeugdboek voor 9+ met een leuke geheime code om te kraken! Ik denk dat veel kinderen dit, net als ik een geweldig leuk boek zullen vinden.
October 20, 2024
+ : I could only find two things I liked about the book - the fabulous illustrations and the department store setting (building magical settings is something this author does well).
- : Unfortunately, I found so many problems that I could barely finish this buddy read - pacing, plot holes, unanswered questions, convenient explanations, annoying details that didn't further the story, lack of details in certain instances where they're needed, the Darkbloom explanation, etc.
- : Unfortunately, I found so many problems that I could barely finish this buddy read - pacing, plot holes, unanswered questions, convenient explanations, annoying details that didn't further the story, lack of details in certain instances where they're needed, the Darkbloom explanation, etc.
December 12, 2025
Vielen Dank an Netgalley und den Verlag Freies Geistesleben für das Rezensionsexemplar! Meine Meinung bleibt trotzdem meine eigene!
4/5 Sternen
Ein niedliches Buch für Kinder! Hat ein spaßiges Setting mit dem riesigen Kaufhaus, das ein wahres Paradies für Kinder und Entdecker ist. Es gibt viele herzliche Charaktere. Man kann mit Zander und Natasha miträtseln. Die spannenden Momente kommen, besonders zu Ende hin, auch nicht zu kurz.
4/5 Sternen
Ein niedliches Buch für Kinder! Hat ein spaßiges Setting mit dem riesigen Kaufhaus, das ein wahres Paradies für Kinder und Entdecker ist. Es gibt viele herzliche Charaktere. Man kann mit Zander und Natasha miträtseln. Die spannenden Momente kommen, besonders zu Ende hin, auch nicht zu kurz.
September 19, 2024
This was so boring I could cry.
August 24, 2024
True Rating: 3/5
Content/Trigger Warnings: Non-graphic dangerous situations, Discussions of magical manipulation that sounds like a mental illness, Depictions of acrophobia
"She resolved to build the most fantastic store in the world, one where people could not only purchase items they needed for sustenance, but where they could also come to experience a bit of wonder themselves."
While not the greatest middle grade, I did very much enjoy Guterson's "Winterhouse" trilogy, if only because of the perfect winter atmosphere. The quality of the storytelling did go down a bit with each book, but I still managed to enjoy them because of that atmosphere, as well as the touch of whimsy that was always present in the story because of the location. So, when I learned he had a new book out, I was excited and couldn't wait to read it.
How was it?
Criticism
No Atmosphere
Probably one of the biggest issues with this story is that there is absolutely no atmosphere. No whimsy, no summery vibes, nothing. It didn't even have a dangerous or vaguely spooky vibe, even though it seemed to be aiming for it. It just felt like words on paper, no feelings with it at all. It was a big letdown, because I really wanted an extremely whimsical vibe given the setting. Sadly, it wasn't there.
Nothing New
This is almost exactly Winterhouse 2.0. Whimsical, almost magical building? Check. Young person staying for a few weeks? Check. Mystery surrounding the building? Check. New friend made almost immediately? Check. Puzzles? Check. Main Character has a quirky ability? Check. All you have to do is change the setting, change the character names and genders, and you get another, not as good, Winterhouse setting. There is so much that could have been done with this idea, and it just fell flat because it was way too similar to his other work.
Abrupt Ending
Compared to the other things, this is just a minor blip on the radar, but the actual ending of the book is rather sudden. It's going well, and then just the last paragraph comes and it's over. There's no lead-up to that paragraph, no good segue, just...book, done. Again, a minor thing, but definitely a strike against the book.
No Subtlety
This was also an issue in Winterhouse, but as this is a new series I feel like it's important to note whether the author has grown from it or not. And nope. When it comes to our villains, there is absolutely no subtlety at all. Even readers at the "appropriate" age for this book will easily guess who the villains are, so the end is not a surprise. In Winterhouse, the "how" and the danger was at least interesting enough to make up for it, but since this novel is lacking that...it's just boring.
Praise
Readability
Guterson's writing style is really approachable, and I can definitely see younger readers appreciating it. It also helps that there are so many illustrations throughout the book which add to the reading experience for the readers. The story may not make readers think too much, but it should entertain them for a bit, and honestly? That's the least a book should aim for.
Good Idea
While the execution wasn't great, the idea behind the story is a good one. I could definitely see how this would have been a success if the author had gone about things a different way. The very idea of the story gives off the whimsical image of something like Wonka's factory or one of the many buildings in a Miyazaki movie. The idea has the possibility of being great as long as the author handles it better going forward.
Final Thoughts
If you didn't like "Winterhouse," I can guarantee you aren't going to like this one at all. It's basically copying its predecessor, but without what made "Winterhouse" appealing. I recommend trying this from the library or a friend before buying it. The only reason I give this 3 stars and not lower IS because I enjoy Guterson's writing, and I can see the potential. I have some hope that the next book is an improvement.
Content/Trigger Warnings: Non-graphic dangerous situations, Discussions of magical manipulation that sounds like a mental illness, Depictions of acrophobia
"She resolved to build the most fantastic store in the world, one where people could not only purchase items they needed for sustenance, but where they could also come to experience a bit of wonder themselves."
While not the greatest middle grade, I did very much enjoy Guterson's "Winterhouse" trilogy, if only because of the perfect winter atmosphere. The quality of the storytelling did go down a bit with each book, but I still managed to enjoy them because of that atmosphere, as well as the touch of whimsy that was always present in the story because of the location. So, when I learned he had a new book out, I was excited and couldn't wait to read it.
How was it?
Criticism
No Atmosphere
Probably one of the biggest issues with this story is that there is absolutely no atmosphere. No whimsy, no summery vibes, nothing. It didn't even have a dangerous or vaguely spooky vibe, even though it seemed to be aiming for it. It just felt like words on paper, no feelings with it at all. It was a big letdown, because I really wanted an extremely whimsical vibe given the setting. Sadly, it wasn't there.
Nothing New
This is almost exactly Winterhouse 2.0. Whimsical, almost magical building? Check. Young person staying for a few weeks? Check. Mystery surrounding the building? Check. New friend made almost immediately? Check. Puzzles? Check. Main Character has a quirky ability? Check. All you have to do is change the setting, change the character names and genders, and you get another, not as good, Winterhouse setting. There is so much that could have been done with this idea, and it just fell flat because it was way too similar to his other work.
Abrupt Ending
Compared to the other things, this is just a minor blip on the radar, but the actual ending of the book is rather sudden. It's going well, and then just the last paragraph comes and it's over. There's no lead-up to that paragraph, no good segue, just...book, done. Again, a minor thing, but definitely a strike against the book.
No Subtlety
This was also an issue in Winterhouse, but as this is a new series I feel like it's important to note whether the author has grown from it or not. And nope. When it comes to our villains, there is absolutely no subtlety at all. Even readers at the "appropriate" age for this book will easily guess who the villains are, so the end is not a surprise. In Winterhouse, the "how" and the danger was at least interesting enough to make up for it, but since this novel is lacking that...it's just boring.
Praise
Readability
Guterson's writing style is really approachable, and I can definitely see younger readers appreciating it. It also helps that there are so many illustrations throughout the book which add to the reading experience for the readers. The story may not make readers think too much, but it should entertain them for a bit, and honestly? That's the least a book should aim for.
Good Idea
While the execution wasn't great, the idea behind the story is a good one. I could definitely see how this would have been a success if the author had gone about things a different way. The very idea of the story gives off the whimsical image of something like Wonka's factory or one of the many buildings in a Miyazaki movie. The idea has the possibility of being great as long as the author handles it better going forward.
Final Thoughts
If you didn't like "Winterhouse," I can guarantee you aren't going to like this one at all. It's basically copying its predecessor, but without what made "Winterhouse" appealing. I recommend trying this from the library or a friend before buying it. The only reason I give this 3 stars and not lower IS because I enjoy Guterson's writing, and I can see the potential. I have some hope that the next book is an improvement.
July 22, 2025
Auch wenn ich nicht in die direkte Zielgruppe passe, lese ich doch auch immer gerne auch Kinder- und Jugendbücher. Vor allem, wenn sie auch noch einen Schuss Fantasy enthalten. Deshalb bin ich gleich sehr gespannt auf dieses Buch gewesen, gerade auch weil ich schon Bücher des Autors kenne und diese immer verschlungen und sehr gerne gelesen habe!
Diesmal dreht sich die Geschichte um das legendäre »World Famous Nine« , dieses hat alles, was man sich nur vorstellen kann. In diesem spektakulären neunzehnstöckigen Wolkenkratzer-Kaufhaus gibt es unter anderem ein gigantisches Riesenrad auf dem Dach, eine von der Decke hängende Schienenbahn und fünfundzwanzig gläserne Aufzüge, die blitzschnell nach oben und unten sausen. Doch im Verborgenen lauert ein böser Schatten. Den Gästen passieren seltsame Unfälle, immer wieder fällt der Strom aus, und Figuren auf den Gemälden erwachen plötzlich zum Leben. Zander und seine Freundin Natascha entdecken mysteriöse Inschriften an den Wänden, die zu einem magischen Objekt zu führen scheinen. Wer versucht, den fantastischen Wolkenkratzer zu zerstören? Können die beiden die Codes rechtzeitig entschlüsseln und das Gebäude vor der Zerstörung retten?
In die Geschichte habe ich ohne Probleme hineingefunden. Der Schreibstil ist sehr locker und leicht zu lesen, passt zu der Zielgruppe und es hat sich ein sehr schöner Lesefluss ergeben. Zudem ist der Schreibstil auch schön bildlich, so dass man sich direkt im Geschehen wiederfindet und sich alles gut vorstellen kann. Vorallem natürlich das spektakuläre Kaufhaus wird vor den Augen des Lesers lebendig und man hat richtig seinen Spaß und seine Freunde an dieser tollen Lokation! Da wird man auch als Erwachsener nochmal richtig zum Kind!
Die einzelnen Figuren sind sympathisch beschrieben. Vor allem Zander aber auch Natascha haben mir sehr gut gefallen, da sie sich so leicht nicht unterkriegen lassen und sich richtig in das Abenteuer und Rätsel stürzen, auch wenn es nicht gerade einfach und manchmal auch gefährlich für sie wird. Generell bleibt die Geschichte die ganze Zeit über spannend und man fiebert mit den Protagonisten richtig mit, bis zum spannenden Showdown!
Fazit: Wieder einmal ist dem Autor mit diesem Buch ein echter Glücksgriff gelungen! Das tolle, aussergewöhnliche Setting lässt selbst jedes Erwachsenenherz wieder wie das eines Kindes schlagen und dazu diese spannende Geschichte voller Rätsel, ich bin begeistert! Sehr gerne gebe ich eine Leseempfehlung für Jung und Alt und natürlich die volle Punktzahl.
Diesmal dreht sich die Geschichte um das legendäre »World Famous Nine« , dieses hat alles, was man sich nur vorstellen kann. In diesem spektakulären neunzehnstöckigen Wolkenkratzer-Kaufhaus gibt es unter anderem ein gigantisches Riesenrad auf dem Dach, eine von der Decke hängende Schienenbahn und fünfundzwanzig gläserne Aufzüge, die blitzschnell nach oben und unten sausen. Doch im Verborgenen lauert ein böser Schatten. Den Gästen passieren seltsame Unfälle, immer wieder fällt der Strom aus, und Figuren auf den Gemälden erwachen plötzlich zum Leben. Zander und seine Freundin Natascha entdecken mysteriöse Inschriften an den Wänden, die zu einem magischen Objekt zu führen scheinen. Wer versucht, den fantastischen Wolkenkratzer zu zerstören? Können die beiden die Codes rechtzeitig entschlüsseln und das Gebäude vor der Zerstörung retten?
In die Geschichte habe ich ohne Probleme hineingefunden. Der Schreibstil ist sehr locker und leicht zu lesen, passt zu der Zielgruppe und es hat sich ein sehr schöner Lesefluss ergeben. Zudem ist der Schreibstil auch schön bildlich, so dass man sich direkt im Geschehen wiederfindet und sich alles gut vorstellen kann. Vorallem natürlich das spektakuläre Kaufhaus wird vor den Augen des Lesers lebendig und man hat richtig seinen Spaß und seine Freunde an dieser tollen Lokation! Da wird man auch als Erwachsener nochmal richtig zum Kind!
Die einzelnen Figuren sind sympathisch beschrieben. Vor allem Zander aber auch Natascha haben mir sehr gut gefallen, da sie sich so leicht nicht unterkriegen lassen und sich richtig in das Abenteuer und Rätsel stürzen, auch wenn es nicht gerade einfach und manchmal auch gefährlich für sie wird. Generell bleibt die Geschichte die ganze Zeit über spannend und man fiebert mit den Protagonisten richtig mit, bis zum spannenden Showdown!
Fazit: Wieder einmal ist dem Autor mit diesem Buch ein echter Glücksgriff gelungen! Das tolle, aussergewöhnliche Setting lässt selbst jedes Erwachsenenherz wieder wie das eines Kindes schlagen und dazu diese spannende Geschichte voller Rätsel, ich bin begeistert! Sehr gerne gebe ich eine Leseempfehlung für Jung und Alt und natürlich die volle Punktzahl.
January 18, 2024
Zander's parents are off on a research trip, and are leaving Zander to spend the summer with his grandmother in Novotrosk (sp?), where she owns a 19-story department store. The "Nine," as it is known, is more like a vertical mall, with a myriad of stores and restaurants, a penguin iceberg out front (I don't know, either), and private spaces like the staff reading room and Zander's grandmother's penthouse. Soon after arriving, Zander meets Natasha, who also loves the Nine and spends a lot of time swinging overhead at one of its fantastic restaurants. She and Zander spend time exploring and talking to the people who work at the Nine, and soon get interested in the bizarre "inscriptions" on each floor, that read like nonsense poems. Before they can do much with them, though, strange accidents, each more dangerous than the last, start happening. It seems that a threat from the past has once more arisen and is threatening the Nine--unless Zander and Natasha can figure out how to save it.
3.5 stars. It would have been more, but I got confused with so many characters (I couldn't remember who was who), and the basic premise of the villain didn't make sense to me at all. I also couldn't figure out if this is an alt world; I think it must be, because there don't seem to be any computers or cell phones, but there is Lady Gaga (not as a character, but mentioned). The store relies on 1950s-era technology, like the vacuum tubes used in the store in the movie "Brooklyn". The descriptions are wonderful, and I think kids who loved the fantastical Winterhouse will feel right at home in the Nine. As I listened to the audiobook I didn't have a chance to try to solve the mystery of the inscriptions, so I'd advise a print copy for kids who'd like to have a go at that. Though I liked the two kids a lot, I did wonder that their parents were happy for them to spend the entirety of their precious summer days--when the weather was clear and sunny--inside a mall, however fantastical. The story was well-paced, though, and I can see a lot of kids enjoying it. Thanks to Libro.FM for a free educator copy of the audiobook.
3.5 stars. It would have been more, but I got confused with so many characters (I couldn't remember who was who), and the basic premise of the villain didn't make sense to me at all. I also couldn't figure out if this is an alt world; I think it must be, because there don't seem to be any computers or cell phones, but there is Lady Gaga (not as a character, but mentioned). The store relies on 1950s-era technology, like the vacuum tubes used in the store in the movie "Brooklyn". The descriptions are wonderful, and I think kids who loved the fantastical Winterhouse will feel right at home in the Nine. As I listened to the audiobook I didn't have a chance to try to solve the mystery of the inscriptions, so I'd advise a print copy for kids who'd like to have a go at that. Though I liked the two kids a lot, I did wonder that their parents were happy for them to spend the entirety of their precious summer days--when the weather was clear and sunny--inside a mall, however fantastical. The story was well-paced, though, and I can see a lot of kids enjoying it. Thanks to Libro.FM for a free educator copy of the audiobook.
July 14, 2025
Głównym bohaterem powieści jest Zander Olinga, którego babcia jest właścicielką Plazy Numer Dziewięć, 🏢 domu handlowego, który wszyscy potocznie nazywają Dziewiątką. W miejscu tym aż kipi od różnorodności - ekskluzywne butiki, 🤩 stoiska z łakociami, 🍭 niepowtarzalny sklep z zabawkami 🧸czy diabelski młyn, 🎡 to tylko niektóre z atrakcji mieszczących się w tym budynku. Z pozoru idealny dom towarowy kryje jednak w sobie coś bardzo niɛbɛzpiɛcznɛgo, 😱 a gdy odwiedzającym go gościom zaczynają przytrafiać się dziwne sytuacje, Zander i jego nowa przyjaciółka Natasza postanawiają wziąć sprawy w swoje ręce. Aby uchronić Dziewiątkę przed upadkiem muszą odnaleźć pewien magiczny artefakt. ✨️ To zadanie nie będzie jednak należało do najłatwiejszych. 🙅♀️
Książka kierowana jest do młodszych odbiorców, ale jej klimat sprawia, że w odmętach tej historii przepadnie niejeden dorosły czytelnik. 🤩 Umiejętnie dozowane napięcie, mrơczna atmosfera, niepokojące zdarzenia, intrygujące tajemnice oraz poszukiwanie magicznego artefaktu to wątki, dzięki którym książkę czyta się jednym tchem. 😍 Istotnym elementem, który dopełnia całości, są pełnokrwiści bohaterowie. Tych odważnych, ciekawych świata i zdeterminowanych do działania dzieciaków nie da się nie lubić. ❤️ Duży plus leci ode mnie również za dodatki graficzne zawarte w książce, 👌 a są to między innymi ilustracje obrazujące piętra domu handlowego czy portrety bohaterów.
#tasłynnadziewiątka to pozycja obowiązkowa dla miłośników młodzieżowej literatury przygodowej z elementami grơzy. 🖤 Historia Plazy Numer Dziewięć sprawi, że na wizyty w galeriach handlowych spojrzycie z całkiem nowej perspektywy. 😏 Gorąco polecam❗️☺️
Książka kierowana jest do młodszych odbiorców, ale jej klimat sprawia, że w odmętach tej historii przepadnie niejeden dorosły czytelnik. 🤩 Umiejętnie dozowane napięcie, mrơczna atmosfera, niepokojące zdarzenia, intrygujące tajemnice oraz poszukiwanie magicznego artefaktu to wątki, dzięki którym książkę czyta się jednym tchem. 😍 Istotnym elementem, który dopełnia całości, są pełnokrwiści bohaterowie. Tych odważnych, ciekawych świata i zdeterminowanych do działania dzieciaków nie da się nie lubić. ❤️ Duży plus leci ode mnie również za dodatki graficzne zawarte w książce, 👌 a są to między innymi ilustracje obrazujące piętra domu handlowego czy portrety bohaterów.
#tasłynnadziewiątka to pozycja obowiązkowa dla miłośników młodzieżowej literatury przygodowej z elementami grơzy. 🖤 Historia Plazy Numer Dziewięć sprawi, że na wizyty w galeriach handlowych spojrzycie z całkiem nowej perspektywy. 😏 Gorąco polecam❗️☺️
January 12, 2024
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
👥 are looking for a diverse and unique set of characters
🔍 love mystery books
🧒🏼 have preteens that love to read
💵 miss shopping in brick and mortar malls
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
Zander Olinga’s grandmother is the owner of the fabled Number Nine Plaza, the spectacular nineteen-story skyscraper. The Nine, as it’s called, has everything imaginable, including a massive Ferris wheel on its rooftop, monorail tracks suspended from its ceiling, and twenty-five glass elevators. But there’s something evil looming in the shadows, and strange accidents start befalling the guests. When Zander and his friend Natasha come across a series of inscriptions hidden throughout the walls of The Nine, they discover that the clues will lead them to a magical object which protects the store’s very existence. With the future of The Nine on the line, the pair are determined to recover the mysterious object before the luxury plaza and its many guests are destroyed.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
This was such a cute and funny mystery for younger readers. I loved the unique cast of characters in this novel and the fact that it occurred inside of a mall. I don’t think I’ve ever read a mystery set up like this before, so it was a lot of fun. The boy was really relatable to me as well because he enjoys art and books (much like myself!). While the names were a bit hard for to pronounce, I made sure to google them to help me while reading. Definitely recommend this one for your preteens and teens who enjoy fun mysteries!
👥 are looking for a diverse and unique set of characters
🔍 love mystery books
🧒🏼 have preteens that love to read
💵 miss shopping in brick and mortar malls
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
Zander Olinga’s grandmother is the owner of the fabled Number Nine Plaza, the spectacular nineteen-story skyscraper. The Nine, as it’s called, has everything imaginable, including a massive Ferris wheel on its rooftop, monorail tracks suspended from its ceiling, and twenty-five glass elevators. But there’s something evil looming in the shadows, and strange accidents start befalling the guests. When Zander and his friend Natasha come across a series of inscriptions hidden throughout the walls of The Nine, they discover that the clues will lead them to a magical object which protects the store’s very existence. With the future of The Nine on the line, the pair are determined to recover the mysterious object before the luxury plaza and its many guests are destroyed.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
This was such a cute and funny mystery for younger readers. I loved the unique cast of characters in this novel and the fact that it occurred inside of a mall. I don’t think I’ve ever read a mystery set up like this before, so it was a lot of fun. The boy was really relatable to me as well because he enjoys art and books (much like myself!). While the names were a bit hard for to pronounce, I made sure to google them to help me while reading. Definitely recommend this one for your preteens and teens who enjoy fun mysteries!
August 6, 2024
Literary Merit: 3/5 While definitely on the younger end for middle grade, this novel was a fun read. The plot worked well. I was invested in trying to figure out the inscriptions and save the store. While the villains were no surprise; solving the clues allowed for plenty of mystery. The main character worked on his fear of heights, but other than that characters did not experience any growth. The main character and his friend were both sufficiently developed, they just didn't change. Neither did the relationships between any of the characters. (I still want to know more about the relationship between the mom and the grandmother.) The setting stole the show, each floor of the store having another wonder and it never felt like an exhaustive list. As Zander learned more so did the reader so the discovery of the setting felt natural and authentic.
Originality: 4/5 While the basic plot of saving the _____ is pretty tried and true for middle grade, I enjoyed the details.
Accuracy: 5/5 When the store feels like magic itself, a little bit of magic is accepted and understood. This extended throughout the novel having a clear focus on being realistic with just a touch of magic.
Clarity: 5/5 The setting, characters, and plot were clear and consistent and the illustrations were an added bonus to help set the scene.
Total: 17/20
Age Range: KR ages 9-12, PW ages 9-12, SLJ grades 4-6
Originality: 4/5 While the basic plot of saving the _____ is pretty tried and true for middle grade, I enjoyed the details.
Accuracy: 5/5 When the store feels like magic itself, a little bit of magic is accepted and understood. This extended throughout the novel having a clear focus on being realistic with just a touch of magic.
Clarity: 5/5 The setting, characters, and plot were clear and consistent and the illustrations were an added bonus to help set the scene.
Total: 17/20
Age Range: KR ages 9-12, PW ages 9-12, SLJ grades 4-6
July 17, 2025
some review said something like this is basically just winterhouse again but different setting and I do have to agree. I do think this store is more fun than winterhouse tho. sorry about it
I've talked about mg books feeling too sanitized (I think? my memory isn't great) and this is a good example. no I'm not saying all mg books need to be dark or anything it's more like bro it's okay to have your characters break the rules sometimes. it seems like these authors are worried that if kids are reading about characters disobeying adults they're going to do the same thing. and even if they do ok move on dawg they're children that's how it be. idk it just feels weird to read about these perfect children that always follow the rules of their caring, well-intentioned guardians and immediately feel guilt at the slightest deviation from said rules. there's a wide range of approaches when it comes to portraying relationships with parental figures in middle grade and yet this did not do anything interesting in that regard.
another thing is wow is this book the textbook definition of telling not showing. honestly I don't think I'm the best at pinpointing that issue in books but I certainly noticed it here because it happened the entire time. you know what emotion people are feeling ONLY from the text literally telling you that they are feeling that emotion. it feels stale.
it was also kinda boring. not a lot of plot going on until the end so then the end feels rushed.
I've talked about mg books feeling too sanitized (I think? my memory isn't great) and this is a good example. no I'm not saying all mg books need to be dark or anything it's more like bro it's okay to have your characters break the rules sometimes. it seems like these authors are worried that if kids are reading about characters disobeying adults they're going to do the same thing. and even if they do ok move on dawg they're children that's how it be. idk it just feels weird to read about these perfect children that always follow the rules of their caring, well-intentioned guardians and immediately feel guilt at the slightest deviation from said rules. there's a wide range of approaches when it comes to portraying relationships with parental figures in middle grade and yet this did not do anything interesting in that regard.
another thing is wow is this book the textbook definition of telling not showing. honestly I don't think I'm the best at pinpointing that issue in books but I certainly noticed it here because it happened the entire time. you know what emotion people are feeling ONLY from the text literally telling you that they are feeling that emotion. it feels stale.
it was also kinda boring. not a lot of plot going on until the end so then the end feels rushed.
June 16, 2025
🏩✨
Zander Olinga przyjeżdża w odwiedziny do swojej babci, która jest właścicielką imponującej galerii handlowej o nazwie Plaza Numer Dziewięć. Galeria jest jednocześnie jej domem, więc chłopiec przez jakiś czas ma okazję pomieszkać w wyjątkowym miejscu. Krótko po jego przyjeździe w Dziewiątce zaczynają się dziać niepokojące rzeczy - krótkie przerwy w dostawie prądu, dziwnie zachowujący się goście, a nawet atak na jedną z pracownic. Wydarzenia te zdają się mieć związek z tajemniczymi inskrypcjami zapisanymi na ścianach budynku oraz z pewnym zaginionym przed laty cennym przedmiotem.
🛍️👗
,,Ta słynna Dziewiątka" będzie doskonałą lekturą dla młodych detektywów, którzy lubią skomplikowane zagadki, mylące tropy i historie z dreszczykiem.
Ben Guterson po raz kolejny stworzył oryginalną, wciągającą historię, w której zagadki i rodzinne tajemnice stanowią trzon powieści. Wykreował całą gamę barwnych postaci, dzięki czemu lista podejrzanych jest długa i ciekawa.
Autor zdecydował się na wprowadzenie wątku paranormalnego i choć zazwyczaj nie jestem fanką takich rozwiązań, muszę przyznać, że potęguje on mroczny klimat powieści.
Mimo że już dawno przekroczyłam widełki wiekowe docelowego czytelnika, bawiłam się świetnie i myślę, że Wy też będziecie!
💍🎀
[współpraca reklamowa z @wydawnictwo_dwukropek]
March 12, 2024
Zander gets to spend the summer with his grandmother, the owner of a magical department store. As soon as he arrives he encounters a mystery that threatens to destroy the store. With the help of his new friend, he tries to solve the riddles that will lead him to a lost magical item that will save the store.
I went into the story thinking the department store would be magical and whimsical along the lines of Hogwarts or Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory. However, it really just feels like a giant department store (19 stories with a Ferris Wheel on top!). There was nothing really magical about it. There is supposedly something magical about the item that needs to be found, but it seems to all be hearsay. I think children would enjoy reading this as I can see them getting excited about what it would be like to run around a giant department store with a friend. The mystery feels very Scooby-Dooish, but it was fun to see how they solved it. My favorite part of the book was definitely all of the drawings inside. We get to see a lot of scenes, various stores within the building, and the cast of characters. The artist did a great job bringing it all to life.
Overall, this was just fine. As an adult I wasn't that invested in it, but I do think that kids might enjoy it more.
I went into the story thinking the department store would be magical and whimsical along the lines of Hogwarts or Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory. However, it really just feels like a giant department store (19 stories with a Ferris Wheel on top!). There was nothing really magical about it. There is supposedly something magical about the item that needs to be found, but it seems to all be hearsay. I think children would enjoy reading this as I can see them getting excited about what it would be like to run around a giant department store with a friend. The mystery feels very Scooby-Dooish, but it was fun to see how they solved it. My favorite part of the book was definitely all of the drawings inside. We get to see a lot of scenes, various stores within the building, and the cast of characters. The artist did a great job bringing it all to life.
Overall, this was just fine. As an adult I wasn't that invested in it, but I do think that kids might enjoy it more.
January 27, 2024
If you're looking for a mystery with a fantastic setting, surprises and danger throughout, and coded messages you can solve along with the characters, The World-Famous Nine hits the mark.
When Zander's parents are involved in a research trip for work, he gets to spend a few weeks at The Nine, his grandmother's amazing nineteen-story department store.
The Nine is an enchanting department store that feels more like a self-contained city peopled with interesting characters and places. Zander's family has owned the store for generations - I love that the women of the family have always run the store - and have built a caring community of employees and customers. Much of the story feels like a giant scavenger hunt as Zander and his friend Natasha scour the store seeking clues and collecting information. I loved getting out a pencil and paper to decode clues along with Zander. Students will be hungry for their own scavenger hunt and code-breaking activities after reading this engrossing mystery.
When Zander's parents are involved in a research trip for work, he gets to spend a few weeks at The Nine, his grandmother's amazing nineteen-story department store.
The Nine is an enchanting department store that feels more like a self-contained city peopled with interesting characters and places. Zander's family has owned the store for generations - I love that the women of the family have always run the store - and have built a caring community of employees and customers. Much of the story feels like a giant scavenger hunt as Zander and his friend Natasha scour the store seeking clues and collecting information. I loved getting out a pencil and paper to decode clues along with Zander. Students will be hungry for their own scavenger hunt and code-breaking activities after reading this engrossing mystery.
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