The Key on Edge: Mystery Creativity Adventure

by Michael J. Piatt

The Key on Edge is a mystery novel for young adults centered around a group of first-year high school students in a small town. They call themselves the Sharefield Gang. The gang gets involved in a theater production that mysteriously begins to play out in their real lives. Dion, one of the stronger personalities in the gang, discovers a magic key from the theater production in a most unexpected place. This sets them on a journey to figure out just who wrote the manuscript and why parts of it keep reoccurring in their lives. The gang bonds together through the agonizing challenges and utter confusion encountered throughout the story, as the characters are drawn closer through heartfelt hints of romance.

The story is uplifting, without conflict or violence. This “feel-good” inspiring mystery highlights misconceptions that, in the end, have somewhat plausible explanations. It has been crafted to grasp the reader’s attention while simultaneously interjecting life lessons that demonstrate critical thinking. It teaches the creative process through simple examples of innovation spread throughout the story. A discussion guide is provided, which reviews the lessons embedded within the pages of this book to support parents and educators.

This book is the first in the Key Series. It is a trilogy that explores educational topics within the framework of mystery, suspense, and fantasy as experienced by the Sharefield Gang of young adults. Come join their journey.

214 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 30, 2024

About the author

Michael 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.

Reviews

[Summer Livingston · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Key on the Edge by Michael Priat is an absolute page-turner. The story revolves around this ancient key with some seriously intriguing powers, and the main character's mission to figure it all out is super engaging. The characters feel real, and the plot has so many unexpected twists that keep you guessing. If you're into mystery and adventure, this book is definitely worth checking out!
I ate this whole series up in two days and was the reason for many a late night. I will be passing these books on to my niece who is also a book lover and was intrigued when I told her about them. Fantastic job Michael

[Jeff Filliater · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun to read and highly educational for middle schoolers!

I enjoyed reading this book! The author, an innovator who holds more than 100 patents, has interwoven his learning and experiences in technology and creativity with a wonderful story that middle school students will love to read.

By doing so, they will learn critical skills in creative thinking, leadership, collaboration and problem solving as the characters encounter multiple challenges which they must overcome together by employing those skills.

I highly recommend this trilogy for middle school students.