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National Park Mystery #5
Quest in Yosemite National Park: A Mystery Adventure
Another Edge-Of-Your-Seat Adventure in the Bestselling Series.
Jake Evans and his two friends, Wes and Amber, are on a quest in Yosemite National Park to solve a new set of clues that lead them to the heights and down into the depths of Yosemite National Park.
Ages 7 to 14 - With over 60 Illustrations - A Page-Turner Full of Twists and Turns
The National Park Mystery Series
Before Jake’s grandfather died, he was on the trail of a centuries-old mystery. He has entrusted that mystery to Jake, leaving behind a set of hidden codes, riddles, maps, and other clues that lead Jake and his friends on a scavenger hunt while camping in the most rugged wilderness of the national parks.
The mystery unfolds as Jake, Amber, and Wes learn about survival skills, natural history, integrity, character, and friendship.
Along the way, they discover they are not the only ones on this quest. An elusive shadow group is close on their heels.
Illustrated by the author, these page-turning adventures are designed to capture the imagination of even the most reluctant of young readers. Parents looking for a delightful read-aloud adventure will find it hard to put down.
If your family loves the enchanted lands of our national parks, this series will take you to hidden places and breathtaking landscapes. If you enjoy reading mystery adventures like the Hardy Boys or Gary Paulsen’s survival story, Hatchet, you’ll love this fifth installment of the National Park Mystery Series.
Start this epic adventure on your Kindle app, or begin the journey with a paperback copy.
Can I start the series with Book 5, or do I have to start with Book 1?
You can with any book in the series, but it's most enjoyed by starting with Book 1 and reading them in order. All books have a brief preface to catch the reader up on the story without spoiling the plot.
Why does it cost more than the other books in the series?
Book 5 is 40% longer than Book 1 (by word count) and has a total of 60 illustrations. All that makes it more expensive to print, so the book costs 8% more than the others in the series.
Jake Evans and his two friends, Wes and Amber, are on a quest in Yosemite National Park to solve a new set of clues that lead them to the heights and down into the depths of Yosemite National Park.
Ages 7 to 14 - With over 60 Illustrations - A Page-Turner Full of Twists and Turns
The National Park Mystery Series
Before Jake’s grandfather died, he was on the trail of a centuries-old mystery. He has entrusted that mystery to Jake, leaving behind a set of hidden codes, riddles, maps, and other clues that lead Jake and his friends on a scavenger hunt while camping in the most rugged wilderness of the national parks.
The mystery unfolds as Jake, Amber, and Wes learn about survival skills, natural history, integrity, character, and friendship.
Along the way, they discover they are not the only ones on this quest. An elusive shadow group is close on their heels.
Illustrated by the author, these page-turning adventures are designed to capture the imagination of even the most reluctant of young readers. Parents looking for a delightful read-aloud adventure will find it hard to put down.
If your family loves the enchanted lands of our national parks, this series will take you to hidden places and breathtaking landscapes. If you enjoy reading mystery adventures like the Hardy Boys or Gary Paulsen’s survival story, Hatchet, you’ll love this fifth installment of the National Park Mystery Series.
Start this epic adventure on your Kindle app, or begin the journey with a paperback copy.
Can I start the series with Book 5, or do I have to start with Book 1?
You can with any book in the series, but it's most enjoyed by starting with Book 1 and reading them in order. All books have a brief preface to catch the reader up on the story without spoiling the plot.
Why does it cost more than the other books in the series?
Book 5 is 40% longer than Book 1 (by word count) and has a total of 60 illustrations. All that makes it more expensive to print, so the book costs 8% more than the others in the series.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2024
101 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
Aaron Johnson
35 books112 followersAaron Johnson is the author of middle-grade mystery-adventure novels and non-fiction books in the field of online education.
Middle-Grade Fiction
Aaron Johnson is the author and illustrator of the middle-grade mystery-adventure books in the National Park Mystery Series. As a backcountry guide, he has lived numerous months out of his backpack exploring Rocky Mountain National Park and the wilderness areas of Colorado. He is a former high school and middle school teacher and the founder of the online hiking guide, Dayhikes Near Denver. With over one-million visitors per year, it has become the most popular hiking resource for the Denver Metro Area and Front Range of Colorado. Aaron lives with his wife and two daughters in Castle Rock, Colorado.
Explore more at https://nationalparkmysteryseries.com
Online Teaching and Learning
Aaron Johnson is Associate Dean of Educational Technology at Denver Seminary, a graduate school in Littleton, Colorado. As a veteran online educator, Mr. Johnson's goal is to support teachers transitioning to the online classroom and those who want to improve their teaching skills.
His books have become go-to resources for colleges, universities, and K-12 school districts. Their to-the-point style and practical ideas make them easy to read and immediately applicable. Readers describe the series as "useful," "helpful," "applicable," "reassuring," and "accessible."
His background includes work as a teacher, instructional designer, and faculty developer. During the initial days of COVID, Mr. Johnson was a sought-after aid to institutions that needed help transitioning their faculty to online delivery.
You can learn more at https://excellentonlineteaching.com
Middle-Grade Fiction
Aaron Johnson is the author and illustrator of the middle-grade mystery-adventure books in the National Park Mystery Series. As a backcountry guide, he has lived numerous months out of his backpack exploring Rocky Mountain National Park and the wilderness areas of Colorado. He is a former high school and middle school teacher and the founder of the online hiking guide, Dayhikes Near Denver. With over one-million visitors per year, it has become the most popular hiking resource for the Denver Metro Area and Front Range of Colorado. Aaron lives with his wife and two daughters in Castle Rock, Colorado.
Explore more at https://nationalparkmysteryseries.com
Online Teaching and Learning
Aaron Johnson is Associate Dean of Educational Technology at Denver Seminary, a graduate school in Littleton, Colorado. As a veteran online educator, Mr. Johnson's goal is to support teachers transitioning to the online classroom and those who want to improve their teaching skills.
His books have become go-to resources for colleges, universities, and K-12 school districts. Their to-the-point style and practical ideas make them easy to read and immediately applicable. Readers describe the series as "useful," "helpful," "applicable," "reassuring," and "accessible."
His background includes work as a teacher, instructional designer, and faculty developer. During the initial days of COVID, Mr. Johnson was a sought-after aid to institutions that needed help transitioning their faculty to online delivery.
You can learn more at https://excellentonlineteaching.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
May 18, 2025
Another Thoughtful Installment
Besides tackling the treasure hunt, this book in the series also takes a serious look at dealing with fears and the real dangers of being on a search and rescue team. The ideas presented are quite reasonable and much more respectful than I usually hear on the subject of fears in particular.
I am way looking forward to the next books in this series!
Besides tackling the treasure hunt, this book in the series also takes a serious look at dealing with fears and the real dangers of being on a search and rescue team. The ideas presented are quite reasonable and much more respectful than I usually hear on the subject of fears in particular.
I am way looking forward to the next books in this series!
January 27, 2025
Jake, Wes, Amber and their parents are headed for Yosemite National Park. They are still following the itinerary set by Jake's grandfather before his death. He has set this trip up as a scavenger hunt for the kids. Until this book, their parents aren't completely sure of what is happening with the kids.
Yosemite is a very diverse part with the huge sequoias and huge mountains with monsterous waterfalls. As they enter the park, Jake believes it is the most gorgeous place he has been. But it is beauty mixed with evil.
Just as they enter the park, they learn there are forest fires in the park. Jake has a fear of fires since he was caught in his grandfather's shed when it caught on fire. Just smelling the smoke causes him to fear. Being lost in the wilderness of these parks is also a fear of the kids and their families. They have taken all the precautions they can; but there is always a chance of something happening. It does; but not to them. A 12 year old boy is separated from his family by smoke and is lost. Just knowing he is out there scares the families; but Search and Rescue is in charge. Still, the kids can't get the young man out of their minds.
Yosemite is a very diverse part with the huge sequoias and huge mountains with monsterous waterfalls. As they enter the park, Jake believes it is the most gorgeous place he has been. But it is beauty mixed with evil.
Just as they enter the park, they learn there are forest fires in the park. Jake has a fear of fires since he was caught in his grandfather's shed when it caught on fire. Just smelling the smoke causes him to fear. Being lost in the wilderness of these parks is also a fear of the kids and their families. They have taken all the precautions they can; but there is always a chance of something happening. It does; but not to them. A 12 year old boy is separated from his family by smoke and is lost. Just knowing he is out there scares the families; but Search and Rescue is in charge. Still, the kids can't get the young man out of their minds.
October 21, 2024
This fifth installment of “The National Parks Mystery Series” is nothing short of spectacular! The author has an incredible gift for weaving multiple storylines together, skillfully pulling all the threads together at just the right moment. Each twist and turn kept my son and me on the edge of our seats.
Having followed this series from the start, we eagerly await each new release. My son absolutely loves these books, and they’ve provided a wonderful way for us to connect. In fact, this series played a huge part in our family’s decision to RV for a year, exploring as many National Parks as we can!
In “Quest in Yosemite National Park,” we get deeper insights into the main characters, making it hard to put the book down. The storytelling is engaging, and the setting is beautifully depicted. This book does not disappoint; it’s a thrilling adventure that continues to spark our curiosity about nature and the great outdoors. Highly recommend for families looking for an exciting and meaningful read!
Having followed this series from the start, we eagerly await each new release. My son absolutely loves these books, and they’ve provided a wonderful way for us to connect. In fact, this series played a huge part in our family’s decision to RV for a year, exploring as many National Parks as we can!
In “Quest in Yosemite National Park,” we get deeper insights into the main characters, making it hard to put the book down. The storytelling is engaging, and the setting is beautifully depicted. This book does not disappoint; it’s a thrilling adventure that continues to spark our curiosity about nature and the great outdoors. Highly recommend for families looking for an exciting and meaningful read!
October 28, 2024
This is the 5th book in the series and it is wonderful! The characters are captivating and memorable, and the story is engaging and appropriate for young readers. I especially appreciate the tastefully hidden hiking safety tips, parent responsibility, and respect for the outdoors that is so often missed in kids literature these days. My daughter and I love reading these together and she gets so excited when the newest one arrives.
November 4, 2024
These books just keep getting better! I love how both storylines progressed with just enough suspense. I love the subtle teaching of survival, wilderness, and outdoors skills, and social-emotional language ! So well written, and beautifully illustrated as well. Can’t wait for the next one!
July 24, 2025
4.5* My kids continue to enjoy this series. I especially liked this book's focus on the characters' courage.
October 21, 2024
Jake, Amber, and Wes learn how to orient and find a lost treasure. It’s a cliffhanging and exciting fifth book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2024
I'm an older adult reader, but I still enjoy reading all of the books in the National Park Mystery series! If you haven't read this series before, I highly recommend you start at the beginning and work your way through to this one. This is the latest in a series where each book features an adventure in a different national park, and it's basically like a real-life scavenger hunt. There's not only the pressure of trying to locate various items/treasures, but there's also an element of danger, as there's another well-financed adult organization that's trying to find these treasures as well, and they'll stop at nothing to get them.
This book divides itself between 2 different time periods, so it also introduces some background history into the story, as well as offering many facts about Yosemite. The 3 kids, Jake, Amber, and Wes, are on a multi-park tour set up by Jake's grandfather before he died. There are clues in a scrapbook left by Jake's grandfather, which they must find within the time they spend at each park. As they visit and hike various trails in Yosemite, they are confronted with a number of obstacles, including a rampaging forest fire that threatens to derail their plans. Also thrown in is a missing kid their own age. There's a lot of action, adventure, and excitement!
One of my favorite things about reading these books is learning a lot about various national parks. I've been inspired to visit several of the parks that I haven't yet been too. I'm especially excited about this book, which takes place in Yosemite, which I have actually visited several times. It's really fun reading about the trails and locations that I've been to myself!
Additionally, one thing that I really like about this author is that Jake, Amber, and Wes are not superhuman. They are ordinary kids, with ordinary fears, and the author allows each of them to share their vulnerabilities with their friends, as well as their parents. I think it's really helpful for everyone reading this story (especially other kids) to see that it's okay to be afraid of things, and it's also okay to share your fears with others. I love how the kids support one another, and the parents help as well in showing how to handle fear and mental trauma from PTSD. It's done in a very natural way, and I think it gives kids an understanding that nobody's perfect and that you don't have to deal with things on your own.
In my opinion, this book is suitable for a wide range of ages, and will especially appeal to kids who are interested in mysteries and adventure. I must admit, I'm looking forward to several of the upcoming books, as they will take place in parks that I recently visited. I highly recommend this series, as I think it's a very fun way to learn a lot of interesting thing about our national parks!
This book divides itself between 2 different time periods, so it also introduces some background history into the story, as well as offering many facts about Yosemite. The 3 kids, Jake, Amber, and Wes, are on a multi-park tour set up by Jake's grandfather before he died. There are clues in a scrapbook left by Jake's grandfather, which they must find within the time they spend at each park. As they visit and hike various trails in Yosemite, they are confronted with a number of obstacles, including a rampaging forest fire that threatens to derail their plans. Also thrown in is a missing kid their own age. There's a lot of action, adventure, and excitement!
One of my favorite things about reading these books is learning a lot about various national parks. I've been inspired to visit several of the parks that I haven't yet been too. I'm especially excited about this book, which takes place in Yosemite, which I have actually visited several times. It's really fun reading about the trails and locations that I've been to myself!
Additionally, one thing that I really like about this author is that Jake, Amber, and Wes are not superhuman. They are ordinary kids, with ordinary fears, and the author allows each of them to share their vulnerabilities with their friends, as well as their parents. I think it's really helpful for everyone reading this story (especially other kids) to see that it's okay to be afraid of things, and it's also okay to share your fears with others. I love how the kids support one another, and the parents help as well in showing how to handle fear and mental trauma from PTSD. It's done in a very natural way, and I think it gives kids an understanding that nobody's perfect and that you don't have to deal with things on your own.
In my opinion, this book is suitable for a wide range of ages, and will especially appeal to kids who are interested in mysteries and adventure. I must admit, I'm looking forward to several of the upcoming books, as they will take place in parks that I recently visited. I highly recommend this series, as I think it's a very fun way to learn a lot of interesting thing about our national parks!
October 26, 2024
The best in the series yet!
I purchased the National Park series books for my grandchildren but I must admit that I enjoy them just as much! Each book continues the storyline of Jake and the gang and their adventures visiting National Parks with their families. I really love that there are so many hand drawn pictures to help even the youngest kids imagine and visualize as they follow along.
Another thing I like is that the storyline is recapped at the beginning for those of us who are reading them as they come out. If you read a lot like I do it gets harder to recall all the little but important details from a book you read months prior or 7 books ago. If you are starting with this book it fills you in on the storyline so the book makes sense.
I won't give away all the details of the storyline but I do enjoy all the detailed information of Yosemite National Park. I will never get to visit the location but it's almost like being there myself. The descriptive way the author portrays the area makes you feel like you are standing in the open wilderness enjoying the beauty the area has to offer. Even though it's a children's book all these little details seep from the pages.
I highly recommend this series whether you have children who enjoy the outdoors or not. The storyline and series of books may peak their curiosity of the great outdoors. There is so much to discover out there!
I purchased the National Park series books for my grandchildren but I must admit that I enjoy them just as much! Each book continues the storyline of Jake and the gang and their adventures visiting National Parks with their families. I really love that there are so many hand drawn pictures to help even the youngest kids imagine and visualize as they follow along.
Another thing I like is that the storyline is recapped at the beginning for those of us who are reading them as they come out. If you read a lot like I do it gets harder to recall all the little but important details from a book you read months prior or 7 books ago. If you are starting with this book it fills you in on the storyline so the book makes sense.
I won't give away all the details of the storyline but I do enjoy all the detailed information of Yosemite National Park. I will never get to visit the location but it's almost like being there myself. The descriptive way the author portrays the area makes you feel like you are standing in the open wilderness enjoying the beauty the area has to offer. Even though it's a children's book all these little details seep from the pages.
I highly recommend this series whether you have children who enjoy the outdoors or not. The storyline and series of books may peak their curiosity of the great outdoors. There is so much to discover out there!
November 14, 2024
Eureka, You Have Found It!
Reviewed in the United States on October 26, 2024
Look no further if you seek adventure and mystery on a scale second to none. In this 5th installment of his Rocky Mountain National Park series, Aaron Johnson has exceeded the expectations of his readers with Quest in Yosemite National Park.
I bought all five of these books for myself and for each set of my grandchildren to enjoy and share by reading together with them. My grandchildren love the excitement and pace of the books and are thoroughly intrigued and enthralled with every turn of the page! When I started reading this book series back in 2022, my youngest grandchildren (who were reading with and to me) were 8, the oldest was 11. My 11 year old who will soon be 14 in April, asked me a month ago when the next book would be released. The now three 10-year-olds and my two 12-year-olds continue to love the series as well and we've had fun creating our own scavenger hunts inspired by the series.
My daughter and her family have traveled and explored more National Parks than I have, however, we have all pursued plans to visit more of them because of the facts, the history, and the information the author has provided at the end of each book.
There is so much this book series has to offer. The relationships between the adult parents and the three young teen characters are a refreshing encouraging addition. While Jake, Wes, and Amber continue to pursue the unfolding mystery taking place; the clues, codes, maps, riddles, and compass use are ever expanding to the delight of the reader. Another plus is the running parallel story set in the 1880s that is connected to the present day. It will find you wanting this book and the series to never end.
What a joy to find yourself eager to dive into this latest endeavor taking place in Yosemite. The hunt to find and protect the secret left by the clues to Jake from his grandfather lead to new ventures. Some are quite unanticipated and they will leave you on the edge of your seat as you fly through the pages to discover what lies ahead.
As an extra bonus, if your school participates in the (AR) Accelerated Reader program, students can take tests after reading the books and earn up to 7 points if they score 100%. *One more noteworthy mention, you'll love the illustrations throughout the books that have been drawn by none other than the author himself and his eldest daughter making a great book a superb book!
Happy reading, Barbara S ~ Grana from Texas
Reviewed in the United States on October 26, 2024
Look no further if you seek adventure and mystery on a scale second to none. In this 5th installment of his Rocky Mountain National Park series, Aaron Johnson has exceeded the expectations of his readers with Quest in Yosemite National Park.
I bought all five of these books for myself and for each set of my grandchildren to enjoy and share by reading together with them. My grandchildren love the excitement and pace of the books and are thoroughly intrigued and enthralled with every turn of the page! When I started reading this book series back in 2022, my youngest grandchildren (who were reading with and to me) were 8, the oldest was 11. My 11 year old who will soon be 14 in April, asked me a month ago when the next book would be released. The now three 10-year-olds and my two 12-year-olds continue to love the series as well and we've had fun creating our own scavenger hunts inspired by the series.
My daughter and her family have traveled and explored more National Parks than I have, however, we have all pursued plans to visit more of them because of the facts, the history, and the information the author has provided at the end of each book.
There is so much this book series has to offer. The relationships between the adult parents and the three young teen characters are a refreshing encouraging addition. While Jake, Wes, and Amber continue to pursue the unfolding mystery taking place; the clues, codes, maps, riddles, and compass use are ever expanding to the delight of the reader. Another plus is the running parallel story set in the 1880s that is connected to the present day. It will find you wanting this book and the series to never end.
What a joy to find yourself eager to dive into this latest endeavor taking place in Yosemite. The hunt to find and protect the secret left by the clues to Jake from his grandfather lead to new ventures. Some are quite unanticipated and they will leave you on the edge of your seat as you fly through the pages to discover what lies ahead.
As an extra bonus, if your school participates in the (AR) Accelerated Reader program, students can take tests after reading the books and earn up to 7 points if they score 100%. *One more noteworthy mention, you'll love the illustrations throughout the books that have been drawn by none other than the author himself and his eldest daughter making a great book a superb book!
Happy reading, Barbara S ~ Grana from Texas
April 18, 2025
First I’m in my 70’s yet I can say I love this book as much as the last 4. I must applaud the parents for the faith that they have in their three adventurer’s. Know for the kids. Jake has a quest that his grandfather has set him and his family and friends on. I do enjoy the books ability to teach use of clues, to solve problems. Yes someone has to have left clues that for some reason are never removed or lost. What this adventure I would like to imagine inspires is the desire to go and see this Yosemite National Park and others as well for their beauty, and to see if the reader can find some of the places that our intrepid trio have visited. With this in mind I will highly recommend this series of books for forth thur seventh graders to learn about the parks and to learn skills they might use know and in later years. Author Aaron Johnson also adds in a story plot from the 1880’s which comes forward to add to the current story. With all this I can only say please consider visiting our National Parks purchasing these books and learn some new things about our parks. Enjoy…
October 21, 2024
This fifth installment of "The National Parks Mystery Series" is nothing short of spectacular! Each twist and turn kept my daughter and I on the edge of our seats.
Having followed this series from the start, we eagerly await each new release. My daughter absolutely loves these books, and they've provided a wonderful way for us to continue exploring as many National Parks as we can!
In "Quest in Yosemite National Park," we get deeper insights into the main characters, making it hard to put the book down. The author has an incredible gift for weaving multiple storylines together, skillfully pulling all the threads together at just the right moment. Each twist and turn kept my daughter and I on the edge of our seats. The storytelling is engaging, and the setting is beautifully depicted. This book does not disappoint; it's a thrilling adventure that continues to spark our curiosity about nature and the great outdoors.
Having followed this series from the start, we eagerly await each new release. My daughter absolutely loves these books, and they've provided a wonderful way for us to continue exploring as many National Parks as we can!
In "Quest in Yosemite National Park," we get deeper insights into the main characters, making it hard to put the book down. The author has an incredible gift for weaving multiple storylines together, skillfully pulling all the threads together at just the right moment. Each twist and turn kept my daughter and I on the edge of our seats. The storytelling is engaging, and the setting is beautifully depicted. This book does not disappoint; it's a thrilling adventure that continues to spark our curiosity about nature and the great outdoors.
November 7, 2024
Loved reading Quest in Yosemite National Park
Quest in Yosemite National Park, Book 5 in the National Park Mystery Series is a great book of adventures in a National Park. It was suspenseful in the 1880 portions & the lost boy.
Learning about codes and ciphers, using a compass and orienting, search and rescue, and a little about some of the people important to the park service was fun. The book was educational in learning about safety in hiking, earning trust of parents, and overcoming fears. The characters are well developed. I loved the illustrations throughout the book. The front and back covers of the book are beautiful. Just looking at them creates a sense of peace. As one of the beta readers, I know that Aaron Johnson works diligently to make each book the best he can. He also takes seriously the suggestions received for improvements. I am looking forward to the next book.
Quest in Yosemite National Park, Book 5 in the National Park Mystery Series is a great book of adventures in a National Park. It was suspenseful in the 1880 portions & the lost boy.
Learning about codes and ciphers, using a compass and orienting, search and rescue, and a little about some of the people important to the park service was fun. The book was educational in learning about safety in hiking, earning trust of parents, and overcoming fears. The characters are well developed. I loved the illustrations throughout the book. The front and back covers of the book are beautiful. Just looking at them creates a sense of peace. As one of the beta readers, I know that Aaron Johnson works diligently to make each book the best he can. He also takes seriously the suggestions received for improvements. I am looking forward to the next book.
March 6, 2025
I purchased all five books that have been published so far directly from the author’s website. I love the National Park settings and the mysteries that include real locations and the history of the parks and area. These are wonderful wholesome (anyone who says otherwise has clearly not read the books) stories that also offer up many real life lessons and challenges that children face today. The kids are not perfect and face many personal challenges that they have to work through just like in real life. But it teaches kids how to be kind and how to help one another all while giving an entertaining and exciting story. The back story set in the 1800’s is alto intriguing and entertaining. I highly recommend this series for any age reader. I can’t wait for books 6-10!
May 19, 2025
Quest in Yosemite National Park: A Mystery Adventure (National Park Mystery Series Book 5)
I can hardly wait for Book 6 to come out--- I'm ordering this book for our local elementary school...I got copies of the earlier book for school and our local library.
Through twists and turns, the mystery unfolds while Jake, Amber, and Wes learn about survival skills, natural history, integrity, character, and friendship.
I believe readers will find this mystery series engaging and exciting, love out how the plot keeps readers glued to the story. Moreover, the book series is well-written and educational and believe customers will like out if offers facts about Zion National Park's wonders.
I can hardly wait for Book 6 to come out--- I'm ordering this book for our local elementary school...I got copies of the earlier book for school and our local library.
Through twists and turns, the mystery unfolds while Jake, Amber, and Wes learn about survival skills, natural history, integrity, character, and friendship.
I believe readers will find this mystery series engaging and exciting, love out how the plot keeps readers glued to the story. Moreover, the book series is well-written and educational and believe customers will like out if offers facts about Zion National Park's wonders.
October 27, 2024
This series quickly became our favorite after reading book one, and we have waited (not so) patiently for each new book to come out. Even though we love them all, book five is the best one yet! The characters and story continue to be well developed, drawing you in and keeping your attention throughout. So many of the clues come together is this book and we just wanted to keep reading!
If your child likes mysteries and outdoor adventure, you cannot go wrong with these books! And honestly, as a parent and educator, I am just as interested in these books as my child (and students I’ve recommended it to)! It’s great for reading together, or for middle grade readers to read on their own.
If your child likes mysteries and outdoor adventure, you cannot go wrong with these books! And honestly, as a parent and educator, I am just as interested in these books as my child (and students I’ve recommended it to)! It’s great for reading together, or for middle grade readers to read on their own.
November 2, 2024
What a great story! Readers should start with the first book in the series, but don’t have to. This stand alone adventure is its own story, place, and conclusion. I appreciate Yosemite shows how much the characters Jake, Wes, and Amber have learned and grown since their first challenge in Rocky Mt. National Park. They have more confidence in their skills, but are willing to learn new things like orienteering. I really like how their family relationships have grown stronger in this book.
Aaron Johnson is doing a fantastic job with this adventure series. They are compelling reads for middle schoolers who love the outdoors.
Aaron Johnson is doing a fantastic job with this adventure series. They are compelling reads for middle schoolers who love the outdoors.
December 8, 2024
Aaron Johnson has done it again! I loved the 5th book in this series, as I’ve loved the others before it. Jake and his friends continue to help others and go on adventures that many people dream of!
Spoiler: I was very excited that the kids finally found real treasure that was hidden by Abe and Stephen. I love how this series jumps back to the 1800s and intertwines with our current story.
I also love that the kids all have the best hearts. They saved Lucas in this book from dying alone in the wilderness. Not only did Jake save him, with help, but was determined to do so. I cannot wait for the next book in this series!
Spoiler: I was very excited that the kids finally found real treasure that was hidden by Abe and Stephen. I love how this series jumps back to the 1800s and intertwines with our current story.
I also love that the kids all have the best hearts. They saved Lucas in this book from dying alone in the wilderness. Not only did Jake save him, with help, but was determined to do so. I cannot wait for the next book in this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2024
As a homeschool mom to kids ages 11, 9, and 6, we have a strong love for reading historical fiction and visiting our National Parks. These 2 elements are combined beautifully in the National Parks Mystery Series, always leaving us wanting more. The characters are well developed and relatable, the plot is fast moving and suspenseful, and the setting is well depicted. Aaron Johnson, the author writes with ease and engages audiences of all ages capturing the beauty, majesty, and uniqueness of each National Park, Jake, Wes, and Amber visit.
December 20, 2024
I bought this book for my granddaughter but decided to read it first. I can’t recommend it enough! It’s full of adventure and excitement with such good information about the National Park woven into it. I also learned about orienteering and famous national park conservationists as well as survival skills and how to deal with stressful situations (yes! All of that!) but not in a stuffy “here’s a lesson” kind of way. Rather all the information was woven into a super interesting mystery. Now I want to read the other books in the series and visit the parks I haven’t seen yet!!
October 21, 2024
This has been our favorite book in the series. We always wait for a new book to come out because they are my 10-year-old's absolute favorite. He loves to read and can't get enough from the National Park Mystery series. He loves the adventure and learning facts about the National Parks, and I love that he is reading quality books. I am so thankful for a new book in this series. We will buy every single one.
November 2, 2024
The mystery and back story keep building in Yosemite . The illustrations and descriptions make me look forward to visiting someday! I’m amazed with the way the author intertwines all the parts of the story and includes facts and education in an interesting way. This book (and series) is great to share with my 5th grade students. It is also perfect to read as a family. The puzzles are complex enough to keep the attention of older readers but the story can still be understood by younger ones.
December 12, 2024
Another amazing installment in this terrific series. This book takes us on a trip through the wonderful sites found in Yosemite National Park. Jake, Wes, and Amber take on the challenges of this amazing park while continuing their search for Jake’s grandpa’s treasure. The kids over come their greatest fears and tackle new obstacles while learning life lessons. This is a wonderful read for kids and adults alike. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.
August 4, 2025
Ten stars! Highly recommend to readers of all ages!
This is a truly fantastic and engaging series with each book even better than the last. I love the characters and settings. Mr. Johnson paints such vivid images with his writing that you feel completely immersed in Jake's world. I loved every moment spent with this book and am impatiently awaiting the next book in the series! Write faster, Mr. Johnson! 😁
This is a truly fantastic and engaging series with each book even better than the last. I love the characters and settings. Mr. Johnson paints such vivid images with his writing that you feel completely immersed in Jake's world. I loved every moment spent with this book and am impatiently awaiting the next book in the series! Write faster, Mr. Johnson! 😁
October 31, 2024
I am thoroughly enjoying this series. As a former teacher, I can just imagine my students getting lost in these books. If you have pre to early teens, these books are a must-read. The characters are engaging and well developed. Outstanding job once again, Aaron! The illustrations by Aaron and his daughter India are beautiful!
November 2, 2024
The trio is on a new adventure, this time in Yosemite National Park following more clues according to the pack Jake’s grandfather left him. Joining the youth on their tour including maps, survival skills and history, I felt like I was right there along with them on their journey, including the dangers that unfold.
November 15, 2024
The mystery just keeps getting better and better as Jake, Wes, and Amber travel through the National Parks on a quest to solve Jake’s Grandpa’s clues. In Yosemite National Park, the trio join together to solve more clues, find treasure, and most importantly, put their heads together to attempt to save a life.
Can’t wait for the next book!
Can’t wait for the next book!
January 6, 2025
This is a really great series, with adventure, mystery, and exploration that includes two inter-connected stories; one from the past and one in the present. It sneaks in a little math and critical thinking as well as land navigation as Jake and his friends solve codes, riddles, and puzzles, and search for clues hidden in Yosemite National Park.
November 5, 2025
My kids and I are loving this series and we loved this book. This one still had the scavenger hunt, the teamwork, beautiful nature, and family, but it included a new element of facing your fears. I loved how that topic was handled. It was also fun to read about a park I have been too, so I could tell my boys about when I was there too.
“Bacon and more bacon”
“Bacon and more bacon”
October 21, 2024
Fantastic next adventure in the National Park Mystery Series! Yosemite comes alive and encourages the reader to learn more about fire safety. Highly recommend for a family read-aloud or a great read for all ages!
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