The Black Pearl Mystery

The Boxcar Children #64

by Gertrude Chandler Warner

The Aldens go to Maui to help their grandfather's cousin on her pineapple plantation. Soon strange things begin to happen, and people become quiet when the story of the black pearl is mentioned. Illustrations.

Genres: Mystery, Childrens, Fiction, Audiobook, Realistic Fiction, Chapter Books, Middle Grade

121 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

About the author

Gertrude Chandler Warner was born in Putnam, Connecticut, on April 16, 1890, to Edgar and Jane Warner. Her family included a sister, Frances, and a brother, John. From the age of five, she dreamed of becoming an author. She wrote stories for her Grandfather Carpenter, and each Christmas she gave him one of these stories as a gift. Today, Ms. Warner is best remembered as the author of THE BOXCAR CHILDREN MYSTERIES.

As a child, Gertrude enjoyed many of the things that girls enjoy today. She loved furnishing a dollhouse with handmade furniture and she liked to read. Her favorite book was ALICE IN WONDERLAND. Often on Sundays after church, Gertrude enjoyed trips to visit her grandparents' farm. Along the way, she and Frances would stop to pick the wildflowers they both loved. Gertrude's favorite flower was the violet.

Her family was a very musical one. They were able to have a family orchestra, and Gertrude enjoyed playing the cello. Her father had brought her one from New York ---a cello, a bow, a case and an instruction book. All together, he paid $14. Later, as an adult, she began playing the pipe organ and sometimes substituted for the church organist.

Due to ill health, Ms. Warner never finished high school. She left in the middle of her second year and studied with a tutor. Then, in 1918, when teachers were called to serve in World War I, the school board asked her to teach first grade. She had forty children in the morning and forty more in the afternoon. Ms. Warner wrote, "I was asked or begged to take this job because I taught Sunday School. But believe me, day school is nothing like Sunday School, and I sure learned by doing --- I taught in that same room for 32 years, retiring at 60 to have more time to write." Eventually, Ms. Warner attended Yale, where she took several teacher training courses.

Once when she was sick and had to stay home from teaching, she thought up the story about the Boxcar Children. It was inspired by her childhood dreams. As a child, she had spent hours watching the trains go by near her family's home. Sometimes she could look through the window of a caboose and see a small stove, a little table, cracked cups with no saucers, and a tin coffee pot boiling away on the stove. The sight had fascinated her and made her dream about how much fun it would be to live and keep house in a boxcar or caboose. She read the story to her classes and rewrote it many times so the words were easy to understand. Some of her pupils spoke other languages at home and were just learning English. THE BOXCAR CHILDREN gave them a fun story that was easy to read.

Ms. Warner once wrote for her fans, "Perhaps you know that the original BOXCAR CHILDREN. . . raised a storm of protest from librarians who thought the children were having too good a time without any parental control! That is exactly why children like it! Most of my own childhood exploits, such as living in a freight car, received very little cooperation from my parents."

Though the story of THE BOXCAR CHILDREN went through some changes after it was first written, the version that we are familiar with today was originally published in 1942 by Scott Foresman. Today, Albert Whitman & Company publishes this first classic story as well as the next eighteen Alden children adventures that were written by Ms. Warner.

Gertrude Chandler Warner died in 1979 at the age of 89 after a full life as a teacher, author, and volunteer for the American Red Cross and other charitable organizations. After her death, Albert Whitman & Company continued to receive mail from children across the country asking for more adventures about Henry, Jessie, Violet and Benny Alden. In 1991, Albert Whitman added to THE BOXCAR CHILDREN MYSTERIES so that today's children can enjoy many more adventures about this independent and caring group of children.

Books about Gertrude: https://www.goodreads.com/characters/...

Reviews

[Janete on hiatus due health issues · Rating 4 out of 5]

2nd time reading with the help of Scribd audio.

Synopsis: "The Boxcar Children and their grandfather are visiting Hawaii. They help pick pineapples on their cousin Mary's plantation, go snorkeling, and visit a volcano. But they can't figure out why no one will tell them the legend of the black pearl. And who took the diving maps that belonged to cousin Mary's husband? It looks as if the Aldens have another mystery on their hands!"

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The latest selection for parent-child book group. I always enjoy the Box Car Children because the young characters are given independence and intelligence. The child in my life also enjoyed it, and it allowed us to escape to Hawaii during our cold MN winter.

[Stacie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now the kids get to go to Hawaii..... seriously, can Grandpa adopt me? A little pineapple plantation is in trouble and the kids are here to save the day!

[Simon · Rating 3 out of 5]

"The Black Pearl Mystery" by Gertrude Chandler Warner is a captivating addition to the Boxcar Children series, blending the charm of a family adventure with the intrigue of a well-spun mystery. Set against the exotic backdrop of Maui, the Alden children find themselves embroiled in a quest to uncover the truth behind a legendary black pearl and the strange events plaguing their grandfather's cousin's pineapple plantation. Warner masterfully weaves together elements of suspense, cultural exploration, and character-driven storytelling, making it a delightful read for both young and old.

The Alden children, as always, are the heart of the story. Henry, the eldest, remains the responsible and level-headed leader, whose practicality and resourcefulness are crucial in navigating the challenges they face. Jessie, with her nurturing nature and sharp intellect, often pieces together clues that others miss, acting as the emotional compass of the group. Violet, ever the artist, brings a unique perspective, noticing details in her surroundings that contribute to solving the mystery. And then there's Benny, the youngest, whose boundless enthusiasm and curiosity often lead him into unexpected discoveries. Their relationships with each other are beautifully portrayed, showcasing a strong bond of familial love and cooperation. Their individual strengths and weaknesses complement each other, making them a formidable team in their quest for the truth.

Several themes resonate throughout "The Black Pearl Mystery," adding depth and substance to the narrative. One prominent theme is the importance of cultural understanding and respect. As the Aldens immerse themselves in the local Hawaiian culture, they learn to appreciate the traditions, beliefs, and customs of the people around them. This theme is particularly evident in their interactions with the plantation workers and their growing understanding of the significance of the black pearl legend. Another theme is the exploration of truth and deception. As the Aldens delve deeper into the mystery, they encounter conflicting stories and hidden agendas, forcing them to discern fact from fiction. This theme underscores the value of honesty and integrity, as well as the consequences of dishonesty and greed. Finally, the book touches upon the theme of environmental stewardship. Set on a pineapple plantation, the story subtly highlights the importance of responsible land management and sustainable practices, encouraging readers to consider their impact on the natural world.

In conclusion, "The Black Pearl Mystery" is a delightful blend of adventure, mystery, and cultural exploration. Warner's engaging storytelling, coupled with the endearing qualities of the Alden children, makes it a captivating read for all ages. If you enjoyed this book, you might also like "The Secret of the Old Clock" by Carolyn Keene, which features a young sleuth uncovering secrets in a small town, or "The Hardy Boys" series by Franklin W. Dixon, which follows two brothers as they solve mysteries and unravel conspiracies.

[Kathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

My youngest is really interested in Hawaii right now and, somehow, we'd never read this installment of the Boxcar Children series (despite it being one of his favorite series). This one was published in 1998 and feels a tad dated (especially the character of Joseph Kahuna) and I didn't like that the kids eavesdrop in this book, and that plays into how they solve the mystery. Nothing really impressed me about the writing style, but it's pretty standard for is era in the Boxcar Children series, the ambiance is okay, the mystery is fine, characterization is bland... but my son enjoyed it and it held enough glimpses into Hawaii to satisfy him, especially the snorkeling and pineapple plantation.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

I remember reading the Boxcar Children books in grade school. some of the books that started my love of mysteries. It was weird to hear their 'voices" not what i had pictured in my head. Just like what I often think when watching movies based on books I have enjoyed.

Otherwise a nice nostalgic read

[Eliana · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the Boxcar Children take a trip to Hawaii, they hear a story about a black pearl. However, when they ask for the full story, everyone seems nervous to tell it. Can the Boxcar Children find out the story of the cursed black pearl?

[Cherish Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

(4☆ Would recommend)
I loved these books as a kid & I'm really enjoying reading through the series again. I liked the mystery & the suspense. I like how there is more than one possible suspect, who each have reasonable motive. Would recommend.

[Julia Porter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book as a child and now my own children love it as well!

[Charles Reed · Rating 3 out of 5]

60%

Stop the abrupt endings.

[Kim Hampton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book.

[Joel Mardling · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was very good

[Joseph D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Boxcar Children book 64. This should be the Alden’s go to Hawaii. It is amazing that bad people are everywhere, even in paradise. The only part I did not care for in this book is that there really was no repercussion for evil heartless conglomerate. Overall a good read with numerous bad people. ​

Joseph McKnight
http://www.Josephmcknight.com

[Partridge Public]

Warner, Gertrude C. PB

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't wait to go to Hawaii again, just like the boxcar children did. I like mysteries, so I like all the boxcar children books.

[Silver Faerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story in this book is very good. You should read it!