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The Key on Edge
“As the rock was lifted, a shiny key was revealed standing perfectly on edge, defying gravity, as the lights flickered on and off.” A small town, a gang of friends, the courage to discover, and too many mysterious coincidences to be real, make this exciting adventure come to life for all who dare. Follow the gang as they face survival challenges on the enchanting mountain, make unexplainable discoveries in the haunted mansion, and save their beloved dog Grand Paw from peril, all through a search to find the author of the fictional manuscript that somehow comes to life. Feel the fear as the gang experiences a summer they will never forget. Discover how The Key on Edge unlocks a lifetime of intrigue and wonder. Mystical images from the past are intertwined with present-day realities that are just too coincidental to be real—or are they? The faceted edges of the key are destined to heighten individual creativity throughout this work. As you enter the world of the Sharefield Gang you do so at your own risk. Discovery is not for the faint of heart! Understanding and practicing creative thinking are the backbones of this uplifting and inspiring mystery novel. So, delve into the unknown, embrace the magic, and let your imagination soar. The Key on Edge will leave you questioning what lies beyond today. It will ignite a sense of curiosity and excitement that will stay with you long after the final pages.
Discussion Notes are provided.
Illustrated by Juan Giraldo.
Discussion Notes are provided.
Illustrated by Juan Giraldo.
- GenresMystery
237 pages, Hardcover
Published September 12, 2023
2615 people want to read
About the author
Michael J. Piatt
5 books7 followersMichael J. Piatt started his career at NASA studying supersonic flow before the first space shuttle re-entered the atmosphere. After NASA, he spent much of his professional career as chief scientist at a major corporation, where he pioneered Digital Inkjet Printing technology. With a background in innovation and more than 130 US patents to his name, he has first-hand experience with the creative process.
Now he has moved on to the next chapter of his life. He would like to serve the younger generation in some small way by equipping them with skills to meet the challenges of the future. He believes that creativity, in its many forms, is a mindset and a lifestyle that can be nurtured. Piatt shares his heartfelt enthusiasm for storytelling with his dedication to encouraging creative potential.
Now he has moved on to the next chapter of his life. He would like to serve the younger generation in some small way by equipping them with skills to meet the challenges of the future. He believes that creativity, in its many forms, is a mindset and a lifestyle that can be nurtured. Piatt shares his heartfelt enthusiasm for storytelling with his dedication to encouraging creative potential.
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
January 28, 2024
I can't wait to read this book. It is coming up next.
When you're a sophomore in High school, like these kids, you are looking for adventure. They didn't have far to go with this bunch. Putting on a school play for this community got things rolling. One thing led to another. The adventure begins. The local Majestic Mountain was a part of the school play that got the adrenaline flowing. They wanted to climb to the top but very few kids knew anything about following the paths to reach the top. They had to plan the trip and trust each other. So, the planning begins. During the trip unexpected things happen. What did it mean when they found a KEY ON its EDGE?
When you're a sophomore in High school, like these kids, you are looking for adventure. They didn't have far to go with this bunch. Putting on a school play for this community got things rolling. One thing led to another. The adventure begins. The local Majestic Mountain was a part of the school play that got the adrenaline flowing. They wanted to climb to the top but very few kids knew anything about following the paths to reach the top. They had to plan the trip and trust each other. So, the planning begins. During the trip unexpected things happen. What did it mean when they found a KEY ON its EDGE?
February 23, 2025
The book "The Key on Edge" is an adventure mystery book that keeps you wanting to read on. It is written for ages 11-18, and I originally read it to see if my great niece and nephew may enjoy it. Well, I definetly think they will and..... I did too!
Here's the thing, Mr. Piatt does a remarkable job writing through a teenagers eyes (i.e. how they think and experience the world). In general, the teenagers in the book do reflect more than some teens, but overall, it may entice that age group to learn about successful ways of thinking and doing in life.
The book also does an excellent job of capturing the young person's tendency to think all is magical, until upon proper analysis turns out to have simple logical reasons for happening. This includes not just scientific explanations, but also the simple understanding that others may have more information on a subject than we currently do, and we need to communicate appropriately.
The mystery the young teenagers in the book are trying to solve requires creativity, science, rational thought, teamwork and more; all the principles we all would like to pass on to the next generation.
I am more hopeful for the future knowing there are folks who are trying their hardest to pass this type of important information to others in a way that might sink in.
As far as improvment areas in the book. At the very end of the book, the teenagers are sitting around a campfire talking about their experiences that summer. This went on a bit long. Keeping just a couple of thoughtful reflections would be enough to help the reader then use their own thinking skills to think of more. Especially when there are follow up discussion topics at the end.
Overall, I am so thrilled by this book, I plan to read the full triology before doing my best to influence my great niece and nephew to read them too. Chatting about the books will be fun.
I also want to help ensure others have the opportunity to read these and plan to work with libraries to determine if I can get them available there.
Here's the thing, Mr. Piatt does a remarkable job writing through a teenagers eyes (i.e. how they think and experience the world). In general, the teenagers in the book do reflect more than some teens, but overall, it may entice that age group to learn about successful ways of thinking and doing in life.
The book also does an excellent job of capturing the young person's tendency to think all is magical, until upon proper analysis turns out to have simple logical reasons for happening. This includes not just scientific explanations, but also the simple understanding that others may have more information on a subject than we currently do, and we need to communicate appropriately.
The mystery the young teenagers in the book are trying to solve requires creativity, science, rational thought, teamwork and more; all the principles we all would like to pass on to the next generation.
I am more hopeful for the future knowing there are folks who are trying their hardest to pass this type of important information to others in a way that might sink in.
As far as improvment areas in the book. At the very end of the book, the teenagers are sitting around a campfire talking about their experiences that summer. This went on a bit long. Keeping just a couple of thoughtful reflections would be enough to help the reader then use their own thinking skills to think of more. Especially when there are follow up discussion topics at the end.
Overall, I am so thrilled by this book, I plan to read the full triology before doing my best to influence my great niece and nephew to read them too. Chatting about the books will be fun.
I also want to help ensure others have the opportunity to read these and plan to work with libraries to determine if I can get them available there.
January 21, 2024
Many thanks to the author for gifting me this book for an honest review.
This book wasn't bad, but it wasn't very exceptional either. It was OK. Part of my opinion could be influenced by the fact that I am not a middle-grade reader, but I do think that that group of readers would enjoy reading this book, for sure.
My few comments:
The dialogue felt very forced and unrealistic and almost took me out of the story. While the kids in the story were smart, it almost felt like they also had some oh-so convenient ideas that didn't really feel plausible for these kids to be coming up with. Lastly, I did enjoy and appreciate the ending because it tied up the book in a nice bow and wasn't too far out there.
This book wasn't bad, but it wasn't very exceptional either. It was OK. Part of my opinion could be influenced by the fact that I am not a middle-grade reader, but I do think that that group of readers would enjoy reading this book, for sure.
My few comments:
The dialogue felt very forced and unrealistic and almost took me out of the story. While the kids in the story were smart, it almost felt like they also had some oh-so convenient ideas that didn't really feel plausible for these kids to be coming up with. Lastly, I did enjoy and appreciate the ending because it tied up the book in a nice bow and wasn't too far out there.
December 27, 2023
This lovely book follows a group of young people on a journey over a mountain, among other challenges, to solve a mystery. Haunted mansions and school plays are all part of the discovery.
After the story, the author has a bonus section in which he encourages creative thinking by asking the reader if there were alternative options for the young people to solve the difficulties they encountered.
A charming little book that entertains as well as educates.
After the story, the author has a bonus section in which he encourages creative thinking by asking the reader if there were alternative options for the young people to solve the difficulties they encountered.
A charming little book that entertains as well as educates.
November 10, 2023
PRESS RELEASE –MICHAEL J. PIATT
New Young Adult Mystery/Adventure Novel, “The Key on Edge,” Offers Creative Thinking Skills to Readers.
Innovator Michael J. Piatt Publishes His First Book to Inspire Young Minds.
Michael J. Piatt, an esteemed innovator and now author, is delighted to announce the publication of his enthralling young adult mystery/adventure novel, “The Key on Edge.” Piatt’s book seeks to equip students with essential creative thinking skills by drawing readers of all ages into an engaging narrative that includes an innovative approach to exploring creativity.
In a world that is changing at an unprecedented rate, “The Key on Edge” is a valued instrument for fostering creativity through critical thinking and collaboration. Piatt, a seasoned technologist, and inventor, draws upon his expertise and life experiences to portray a literary voyage that integrates entertainment and education in a single journey. Readers are invited to follow along with the Sharefield Gang of young adults through a series of engaging adventures as they learn to solve problems and uncover mysteries.
Piatt aspires to equip readers with the confidence and ingenuity necessary to navigate a world that is constantly shifting by providing useful insights and techniques of the creative process. This information is rarely understood and presented in such a simple, actionable form. Beyond the pages of his book, Piatt extends his commitment to making a difference. All profits from “The Key on Edge” book sales will be donated to educational charities, reinforcing the author’s dedication to empowering youthful minds and giving back to the community. The novel offers educators and parents an excellent opportunity to guide and inspire students’ personal and academic development.
“The world around us is evolving faster than ever, driven by new technologies and ideas,” explained Piatt. “It is crucial that we equip the next generation with the tools necessary to not only adapt to this dynamic landscape, but to flourish within it.
‘’Through ‘The Key on Edge,’ I aim to encourage young readers to embrace innovation as a lifestyle, making a positive difference in their own lives and the lives of others,” said Piatt.
The intended audience for “The Key on Edge” is not limited to students. It offers practical and useful techniques to anyone interested in improving their creative thinking skills. The book contains a thorough discussion guide, providing readers with a proven resource for delving further into the themes and concepts presented through tangible examples in the storyline. “The Key on Edge” is destined to become a must-read for young adults seeking to realize their creative potential. Piatt’s approach to narration captivates readers from the very first page and inspires them with invaluable insights that foster creative thought.
“The Key on Edge” is available in both print and digital formats from major online retailers and independent bookstores, which you can reach through www.pibooks.net.
About Michael J. Piatt:
Michael J. Piatt is an innovator with a passion for fostering creativity and innovation in youthful minds. Piatt aspires to make a positive impact by sharing his life experiences and knowledge. “The Key on Edge” is his first novel. It combines his heartfelt enthusiasm for storytelling with his
dedication to fostering creative potential.
Contact Information
Website: www.pibooks.net
Email: piattbooks@gmail.com
New Young Adult Mystery/Adventure Novel, “The Key on Edge,” Offers Creative Thinking Skills to Readers.
Innovator Michael J. Piatt Publishes His First Book to Inspire Young Minds.
Michael J. Piatt, an esteemed innovator and now author, is delighted to announce the publication of his enthralling young adult mystery/adventure novel, “The Key on Edge.” Piatt’s book seeks to equip students with essential creative thinking skills by drawing readers of all ages into an engaging narrative that includes an innovative approach to exploring creativity.
In a world that is changing at an unprecedented rate, “The Key on Edge” is a valued instrument for fostering creativity through critical thinking and collaboration. Piatt, a seasoned technologist, and inventor, draws upon his expertise and life experiences to portray a literary voyage that integrates entertainment and education in a single journey. Readers are invited to follow along with the Sharefield Gang of young adults through a series of engaging adventures as they learn to solve problems and uncover mysteries.
Piatt aspires to equip readers with the confidence and ingenuity necessary to navigate a world that is constantly shifting by providing useful insights and techniques of the creative process. This information is rarely understood and presented in such a simple, actionable form. Beyond the pages of his book, Piatt extends his commitment to making a difference. All profits from “The Key on Edge” book sales will be donated to educational charities, reinforcing the author’s dedication to empowering youthful minds and giving back to the community. The novel offers educators and parents an excellent opportunity to guide and inspire students’ personal and academic development.
“The world around us is evolving faster than ever, driven by new technologies and ideas,” explained Piatt. “It is crucial that we equip the next generation with the tools necessary to not only adapt to this dynamic landscape, but to flourish within it.
‘’Through ‘The Key on Edge,’ I aim to encourage young readers to embrace innovation as a lifestyle, making a positive difference in their own lives and the lives of others,” said Piatt.
The intended audience for “The Key on Edge” is not limited to students. It offers practical and useful techniques to anyone interested in improving their creative thinking skills. The book contains a thorough discussion guide, providing readers with a proven resource for delving further into the themes and concepts presented through tangible examples in the storyline. “The Key on Edge” is destined to become a must-read for young adults seeking to realize their creative potential. Piatt’s approach to narration captivates readers from the very first page and inspires them with invaluable insights that foster creative thought.
“The Key on Edge” is available in both print and digital formats from major online retailers and independent bookstores, which you can reach through www.pibooks.net.
About Michael J. Piatt:
Michael J. Piatt is an innovator with a passion for fostering creativity and innovation in youthful minds. Piatt aspires to make a positive impact by sharing his life experiences and knowledge. “The Key on Edge” is his first novel. It combines his heartfelt enthusiasm for storytelling with his
dedication to fostering creative potential.
Contact Information
Website: www.pibooks.net
Email: piattbooks@gmail.com
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews