The Edenville Owls by Robert Parker 194 pages 978-0-399-24656-2

Why should Robert Parker only be enjoyed by adult?.Before he died, Mr. Parker published a couple of juvenile mysteries that have strong characters, smart dialog and film noirish atmosphere in spades.The titular "Owls" are not birds per se, but refer to young basketball players in a small Massachusetts town at the end of World War !!. Bobby may only be 14, but he has what it takes to motivate his coach-less team.Like Spenser in his adult mysteries, Bobby is becoming quite the gallant hero.Why exactly is a mysterious stranger harassing his teacher? Joanie, his trusted sidekick, is morphing into an attractive young person. Bobby may not quite know how to handle his new feelings for her, but Parker sure does know how to work this sweet adolescent turbulence. These slim mysteries would make great reading for grandparents and their young readers.