THE DETECTIVE'S GUIDE TO OCEAN TRAVEL BY NICKI GREENBERG

Nicki Greenberg’s The Detectives Guide to Ocean Travel is set during the golden age of ocean liner travel. It is 1920 and all Pepper Stark wants is to travel with her father – the Captain of the RMS Aquitania. He is a distant parent who is away more than he is at home and Pepper is keen to make their relationship more loving and family-like. Her mother died when Pepper was very young and so there is just the two of them. Her stern governess is no fun and Pepper is pretty desperate for a bit of adventure.

Circumstances change and her steely father allows Pepper and Miss Quacken to join him on a trip to New York. The vast ocean liner is the epitome of glamour and is absolutely jam packed with exciting characters. The most famous passenger is the actress, Perdita West, accompanied by her pet leopard Muffy, and wearing the famous Saffron Diamond.

When the diamond goes missing, the search is on for the stone and the culprit who stole it in front of everyone’s eyes. Pepper and friends she has made on board, race to find the thief and the incredibly rare and expensive diamond. Her father’s reputation is at stake so Pepper must work quickly before the ship docks in New York city.

This novel is perfect for 8-12 year-olds. The detailed descriptions of the food served in first class and the fabulous décor give the reader an insight into this era between the wars. Her cast of suspects and the characters that make up the passengers, are also a nod to the times. Dancing, singing identical twins, a contortionist, a famous jockey and slimy journalist make the perfect elements for Pepper’s detective work.

For Ages: 8 - 12 years

Number of Pages: 310

Published: February 2021

Publisher: Affirm

Themes: Family and Trust