Gilda Joyce, Psychic Investigator
By Allison, Jennifer.
(2005). New York: Sleuth/Dutton.
ISBN: 978-525473756
Reading Level: Grade 4-5
Summary: Gilda Joyce has a long boring summer ahead of her. Sure she has her novel to write, and a neighborhood to spy on, but how is she ever going to start her psychic detective business in boring old Detroit?! Luckily her mother has a cousin in San Francisco, who with a few helpful and colorful hints from Gilda, allows her to come visit for the summer. Luckily that cousin’s house is haunted by the ghost of his long dead sister, Melanie. It’s up to Gilda and cousin Splinter’s daughter Juliet to find out what is keeping Melanie’s spirit in the tower she haunts. It might be her first (kind of) official case, but Gilda is determined to solve it, even if it means her relative is a murderer!
Review: If anyone was a fan of Nancy Drew, they will love Gilda Joyce. Spunky and adventurous, Gilda is a character that younger girls will easily identify with. A multitalented girl, Gilda is a strong character who wants more than anything to solve mysteries. Allison writes a fast paced book where her readers will identify with Gilda even when she makes mistakes. While the books title suggests a heavy focus on the paranormal, the book focuses more on the relationship between Gilda and her cousin and the bonds of family. This book was selected due to its popularity with tweens today. Gilda Joyce is a great alternative for someone who likes a good mystery and a fun female character. This book has staying power due to the fact its set in today’s time and that it is part of a series for which more titles are being written. This will continue to draw new readers to the book and ensure that it stays as an example of a popular tween mystery.
Selected Awards: School Library Journal Best Books of 2005, Booklist Top Ten Mysteries of 2005
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