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Violet #1
Violet and the Pearl of the Orient
When a new family move in next door, Violet is sure there's something strange about them. Then her eccentric, but lovely neighbour, Dee Dee Derota, has a precious jewel stolen. Could the new family be to blame? Violet is on the case to uncover the truth…
192 pages, Paperback
First published May 22, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
June 4, 2021
This was fun! The mystery is nothing remarkable (it was quite easy-to-solve, at least for this adult--I mean, someone is named Count Du Plicitous, after all!) but I just loved the way the story is told and the characters are a lot of fun. I think you'll either love the writing style and humor or find it annoying. For example, before the story begins we are told that you can learn a lot about a person by the type of food they like to eat, so beneath each illustration of our cast of characters is a note of his/her favorite foods.
Here's how the story proper starts:
"It all began with a Fox at a Window.
First, you must picture a tall oak tree in a beautiful garden.
It is late spring when the story begins so the tree should be covered in fluttery green leaves. And now you must imagine a girl of around then, small for her age and slim, with dark brown hair, straight as a ruler, olive skin and precise brown eyes. And then turn that girl upside down, set her swinging to and fro from a high branch of the tree, holding on only by her knees, shamelessly showing off to a crowd of children gathered at the bottom. And there you have Violet Remy-Robinson at the start of the story."
The mystery and sleuthing felt suitable for Violet's age, though I could have done without the forbidden tree climbing and chapter where she sneaks out of school to go talk to PC Green... it was so unnecessary (has no one heard of telephones!?) but at least she got in trouble for it and she had a very kind-hearted reason for doing so. The accompanying artwork, while not quite my cup of tea, fits the story perfectly and I thought the ending was delightful. I had to get this via ILL and I'm not sure I will bother them for the rest in the series right now, though I might try another one eventually or see if I can recommend-to-order for our own library.
Here's how the story proper starts:
"It all began with a Fox at a Window.
First, you must picture a tall oak tree in a beautiful garden.
It is late spring when the story begins so the tree should be covered in fluttery green leaves. And now you must imagine a girl of around then, small for her age and slim, with dark brown hair, straight as a ruler, olive skin and precise brown eyes. And then turn that girl upside down, set her swinging to and fro from a high branch of the tree, holding on only by her knees, shamelessly showing off to a crowd of children gathered at the bottom. And there you have Violet Remy-Robinson at the start of the story."
The mystery and sleuthing felt suitable for Violet's age, though I could have done without the forbidden tree climbing and chapter where she sneaks out of school to go talk to PC Green... it was so unnecessary (has no one heard of telephones!?) but at least she got in trouble for it and she had a very kind-hearted reason for doing so. The accompanying artwork, while not quite my cup of tea, fits the story perfectly and I thought the ending was delightful. I had to get this via ILL and I'm not sure I will bother them for the rest in the series right now, though I might try another one eventually or see if I can recommend-to-order for our own library.
August 16, 2023
Gdybym oceniała tę książkę pod siebie to otrzymałaby ode mnie 3 gwiazdki. Ocenię ją jednak pod dzieciaki do których jest skierowana, więc zdecydowanie otrzymuje ode mnie 4 gwiazdki.
"Violet i Perła Orientu" to intrygująca historia z wątkiem kryminalnym. Mamy w niej ciekawie wykreowane postaci w różnym wieku, małe podwórko i szybki rozwój wydarzeń.
Książka nie jest gruba, więc czyta się ją błyskawicznie. Zawiera świetne rysunki, schematy i mapy, co ją urozmaica i sprawia, że lektura staje się jeszcze ciekawsza.
"Violet i Perła Orientu" to intrygująca historia z wątkiem kryminalnym. Mamy w niej ciekawie wykreowane postaci w różnym wieku, małe podwórko i szybki rozwój wydarzeń.
Książka nie jest gruba, więc czyta się ją błyskawicznie. Zawiera świetne rysunki, schematy i mapy, co ją urozmaica i sprawia, że lektura staje się jeszcze ciekawsza.
October 23, 2014
Oh, now... where to start? I absolutely loved this book. The story will inspire any young reader, and the images are perfectly complementary.
Harriet Whitehorn has a brilliant imagination, and I was thouroughly impressed with the storyline and the characters - especially as this is her first book! I have no doubt that children all over the world will aspire to be just like Violet; and will enjoy the journey as though they were by her side every step of the way, putting their detective hats on, too.
The illustrations, beautifully created by Becka Moor, are simply stunning. The attention to detail is prominent and appreciated; and makes Violet's journey so much more compelling. They say to never judge a book by its cover... but trust me when I say, this is the exception.
I emplore every adult to add this book to a child's collection.
Congratulations to both Harriet and Becka, a job well done!
Harriet Whitehorn has a brilliant imagination, and I was thouroughly impressed with the storyline and the characters - especially as this is her first book! I have no doubt that children all over the world will aspire to be just like Violet; and will enjoy the journey as though they were by her side every step of the way, putting their detective hats on, too.
The illustrations, beautifully created by Becka Moor, are simply stunning. The attention to detail is prominent and appreciated; and makes Violet's journey so much more compelling. They say to never judge a book by its cover... but trust me when I say, this is the exception.
I emplore every adult to add this book to a child's collection.
Congratulations to both Harriet and Becka, a job well done!
December 20, 2014
Disclaimer: I received this book at work in exchange for an honest review.
This is a brilliant children’s mystery novel that combines an exciting, sometimes funny plot, with endearing characters and amazing purple-toned illustrations.
Although as an adult I felt like this book was a little predictable and under-developed, this would be great for kids of all ages and there are really important moral messages portrayed without feeling preachy.
The characters were quite stereotyped but I enjoyed the cast that was created with this first novel in the series and am looking forward to the following books.
Overall I really enjoyed this children’s book and would recommend it to any parents reading this who have children who like mystery novels, and also adults who love reading kid’s books.
This is a brilliant children’s mystery novel that combines an exciting, sometimes funny plot, with endearing characters and amazing purple-toned illustrations.
Although as an adult I felt like this book was a little predictable and under-developed, this would be great for kids of all ages and there are really important moral messages portrayed without feeling preachy.
The characters were quite stereotyped but I enjoyed the cast that was created with this first novel in the series and am looking forward to the following books.
Overall I really enjoyed this children’s book and would recommend it to any parents reading this who have children who like mystery novels, and also adults who love reading kid’s books.
July 1, 2020
This was a little predictable but still fun and cute for adults who enjoy children's books. The illustrations were quirky and original.
June 20, 2022
I found this book in my local library and then after finishing it and taking it back, I ordered it online because it was that good! Honestly Violet is a smart, adventures girl who follows her gut! She's a great role model for young kids! The Count, Countess and their daughter made me want to go through the book and strangle them lol! I look forward to reading the rest of the series!!
April 17, 2015
nice light reading, gambarnya keren, meski ceritanya pendek tapi bagus, apalagi jadwal kegiatan Violet bisa ditiru nih...
August 28, 2021
Violet is not impressed with the new neighbours that have moved in. Count and Countess Du Plicitous and their daughter Isabella are rude, arrogant and love to show-off. When a valuable jewel called the Pearl of the Orient is stolen from the loveable Dee Dee, Violet is sure that the strange-acting Count knows something about it. With little proof and surrounded by adults that don’t listen to children, Violet takes matters into her own hands. But will she be able to uncover the truth…
Violet and the Pearl of the Orient is an intriguing little who-done-it mystery where readers get to join Violet as she goes about her detective work trying to figure out what really happened to the Pearl of the Orient. With plenty of clues throughout, readers have every chance of catching the crook. Just be sure to keep a close eye on those that are cunning and charming and don't expect any help from the rather inept police officer.
Whilst imaginative and a great deal of fun, the mystery isn’t too difficult to solve, I had it all worked out fairly early on, I mean what other than crime would you be doing with names like Count Du Plicitous and F. Orger. More competent young detectives will be better served by books such as The Highland Falcon Thief and Agent Zaiba Investigates. But for those just beginning their sleuthing career this is about as perfect as it gets and Violet is a great girl to get to spend some time with.
Violet is not your average girl, reading French menus, mixing a cocktail and playing poker are among her many talents. And when she’s not doing those things you can find her playing chess, flamenco dancing and synchronised swimming. A great protagonist, the amateur Sherlock Holmes is determined to uncover the truth even when the adults won’t listen to her. Displaying bravery, ingenuity and using her intelligence to help the bumbling group of grown-ups, she is an ideal young role model, shimmying up drain pipes and breaking into safes aside.
The book is beautifully presented with lovely illustrations, in shades of purple, by Becka Moor. It’s the little touches that make a read extra special for children and I loved the character portrait gallery, the map of the neighbourhood, Violet’s activity timetables and the blueprint of Plan C.
Recommended for 7+.
Violet and the Pearl of the Orient is an intriguing little who-done-it mystery where readers get to join Violet as she goes about her detective work trying to figure out what really happened to the Pearl of the Orient. With plenty of clues throughout, readers have every chance of catching the crook. Just be sure to keep a close eye on those that are cunning and charming and don't expect any help from the rather inept police officer.
Whilst imaginative and a great deal of fun, the mystery isn’t too difficult to solve, I had it all worked out fairly early on, I mean what other than crime would you be doing with names like Count Du Plicitous and F. Orger. More competent young detectives will be better served by books such as The Highland Falcon Thief and Agent Zaiba Investigates. But for those just beginning their sleuthing career this is about as perfect as it gets and Violet is a great girl to get to spend some time with.
Violet is not your average girl, reading French menus, mixing a cocktail and playing poker are among her many talents. And when she’s not doing those things you can find her playing chess, flamenco dancing and synchronised swimming. A great protagonist, the amateur Sherlock Holmes is determined to uncover the truth even when the adults won’t listen to her. Displaying bravery, ingenuity and using her intelligence to help the bumbling group of grown-ups, she is an ideal young role model, shimmying up drain pipes and breaking into safes aside.
The book is beautifully presented with lovely illustrations, in shades of purple, by Becka Moor. It’s the little touches that make a read extra special for children and I loved the character portrait gallery, the map of the neighbourhood, Violet’s activity timetables and the blueprint of Plan C.
Recommended for 7+.
April 16, 2021
I enjoyed Violets story very much however I did find the Authors description of what the Countess eats slightly upsetting and also mildly triggering; this is meant to be a children's story and by adding a character who 'doesn't often eat food,' is not setting a very good example which is why I bumped this story down a star.
I really got into the story and struggled to put it down as it was far too exciting especially towards the end at the Halloween party where everything began to kick off; I felt really sorry for Violet because she had such a difficult time trying to tell the grownups around her what she thought had happened which meant she had to put herself in some tricky positions in order to protect Dee Dee the old lady she loves dearly.
I would of loved to see justice served but the Villain managed to escape which was rather anti climatic but hopefully we may hear more about this in future books!
I really got into the story and struggled to put it down as it was far too exciting especially towards the end at the Halloween party where everything began to kick off; I felt really sorry for Violet because she had such a difficult time trying to tell the grownups around her what she thought had happened which meant she had to put herself in some tricky positions in order to protect Dee Dee the old lady she loves dearly.
I would of loved to see justice served but the Villain managed to escape which was rather anti climatic but hopefully we may hear more about this in future books!
October 28, 2016
This was a total cover-buy. This book is just stunning! With it's cute illustrations, fun colors, and most of all, the amazing golden details:)
It was a fun read. I've read better children's books. Ones that had some more depth, better definition of the different characters and just a better story arch. However, it was still very entertaining! And whenever I'd be afraid the story would become way too predictable, it would often pan out slightly different after all. Also, the fun purple illustrations throughout score some bonus points:)
My favorite character was Dee Dee. Oh, to have a neighbor like her... A girl can only dream of such things!
Anyway, I also own the second book in the Violet series. I know there is more after that. I'm not sure I'll read all, but I did like it enough to give the second one a go as well.
It was a fun read. I've read better children's books. Ones that had some more depth, better definition of the different characters and just a better story arch. However, it was still very entertaining! And whenever I'd be afraid the story would become way too predictable, it would often pan out slightly different after all. Also, the fun purple illustrations throughout score some bonus points:)
My favorite character was Dee Dee. Oh, to have a neighbor like her... A girl can only dream of such things!
Anyway, I also own the second book in the Violet series. I know there is more after that. I'm not sure I'll read all, but I did like it enough to give the second one a go as well.
March 12, 2025
Cute, but uneven | This is a nice little story for the younger side of the middle grade readers, but I hope for some improvements as the series continues. There is almost no character building, Violet has a little bit of personality, and Rose is timid, but nobody else is anything more than a cardboard prop. The process of solving the mystery is not included in the narrative, Violet and Rose head off to discuss it, there's a page break, and they've solved it. The perpetrator isn't even identified in the text at that point, instead an illustration of a page the girls filled in from a crime-solving 'how-to' book names the thief. It's a good start, and lots of young readers would find much of it delightful, but it's just not what it could be. As a side note, the "whiskey tango foxtrot" joke is completely inappropriate for the age group, and I was astonished by it.
October 24, 2021
There was nothing really wrong with this as a mystery book for a young reader.
It also was predictable from the first time that certain names were mentioned as to where the plot would head. Maybe a young reader wouldn't get o e if them but another one is almost spelled out for the reader. The characters don't have that much depth as they are introduced but there are a couple of interesting character points later on.
The plot apart from the clues didn't drag while also never really getting that exciting. I would read more of the series given the chance and recommend that this first book can be read by any amateur detective of any age.
It also was predictable from the first time that certain names were mentioned as to where the plot would head. Maybe a young reader wouldn't get o e if them but another one is almost spelled out for the reader. The characters don't have that much depth as they are introduced but there are a couple of interesting character points later on.
The plot apart from the clues didn't drag while also never really getting that exciting. I would read more of the series given the chance and recommend that this first book can be read by any amateur detective of any age.
February 22, 2023
This was a cute little read. I was taken in by the cover and illustrations and honestly they were my favorite part! The mystery is very predictable (I mean the main suspects are a family named Du Plicitous!). I did enjoy the puns and humor and side notes, very engaging. Just felt like the characters could have been better developed and more complex. Everyone is either completely kind and elegant and graceful or deceitful and spoiled and stuck up and awful. Not a lot of nuance here, which is a missed opportunity. Fun for a palate cleanser but won’t be bothering to look for the other books in the series.
December 25, 2019
This is a brilliant mystery with wonderfully engaging characters and an excellent setting. Violet is a ten-year-old girl with a passion for solving mysteries. But when her neighbour’s priceless pearl brooch goes missing, and Violet finds the thief, she has to use all of her skills to prove her discovery.
P.S Does Isabella Du Plicitous remind anyone of Carmelita Spats? She is in ‘a series of unfortunate events’ if you didn’t know.
P.S Does Isabella Du Plicitous remind anyone of Carmelita Spats? She is in ‘a series of unfortunate events’ if you didn’t know.
February 18, 2020
Violet finds the thief of a valuable pearl orient
This book deserves a five star rating. I loved how Harriet Whitehorn created suspense in her writing and it makes you want to read the next book in the series. The plot of the story is incredible. My favourite character is the cool and eccentric Dee Dee Derota. This is definitely a book that you should read, especially if your a young and adventurous reader!
This book deserves a five star rating. I loved how Harriet Whitehorn created suspense in her writing and it makes you want to read the next book in the series. The plot of the story is incredible. My favourite character is the cool and eccentric Dee Dee Derota. This is definitely a book that you should read, especially if your a young and adventurous reader!
January 8, 2021
Why I rated this book 3 stars:
It was a cute book, it had beautiful illustrations and was a bit quirky. But I only rated it 3 stars was because it was too predictable. I knew 3 pages in that it would be *that* person. I feel like the author could have not made the characters so predictable because it was annoying. As a bookworm, I feel like maybe a more amateur reader would have been a bit more intrigued. Overall, it was a quick read, but not blown away.
It was a cute book, it had beautiful illustrations and was a bit quirky. But I only rated it 3 stars was because it was too predictable. I knew 3 pages in that it would be *that* person. I feel like the author could have not made the characters so predictable because it was annoying. As a bookworm, I feel like maybe a more amateur reader would have been a bit more intrigued. Overall, it was a quick read, but not blown away.
February 15, 2025
Bardzo fajna książka dla dzieci. Opowiadająca o Violet która prowadzi sprawę zaginionej perły orientu . Każda z postaci ma swój własny charakter co dodaje książce ciekawości. Gówna bohaterka Violet jest bardzo mądra,bystra i miła również osoby poboczne są bardzo dobrze wykreowane polecam 4/5
June 28, 2017
Fun middle-grade adventure
July 6, 2017
Çocuklar için güzel ve eğlenceli bir kitap.Karakterler ve olaylar eğlenceli ve gizemli.Büyükler için basit ve açık bir konusu olsada çocukların hoşuna gidebilecek bir hikaye.
August 21, 2017
Any kids' book worth its salt should be enjoyable to adults, too. This was a really idiotic book. The font was horrible on top of everything else. Major thumbs down.
November 15, 2017
It was about a girl whose neighbour has her piece of jewelery stolen. I liked that she suspected her next door neighbours to have stolen the jewelery.
December 17, 2017
These are my nine year old daughter's favourite books.
August 29, 2018
Sometimes you’ve got to be brave and scared at the same time! I really enjoyed this. A fun little detective story with likeable characters and some brilliant word play!
December 10, 2018
Sweet children's book for the adventurous young girl ❤️
January 16, 2019
Mysterious book. Hard to put down!
June 13, 2019
I loved reading this book as a young child. I highly recommend this book for kids in grades prep- 3
August 17, 2019
Gorgeous with delightful vocabulary
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February 23, 2020Wonderful great
Love the part they jump in and obv the do punctillious did steal the pearl of orient
Love the part they jump in and obv the do punctillious did steal the pearl of orient
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2020
Bought this middle grade novel at a book sale today, and finished it already. Quite delightful, with a cast of exaggerated characters and names that give the villains away instantly.
May 16, 2020
Quite fun, but I found it a little boring. The illustrations were fun as well.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews