*Book cover pic from Goodreads.com
Even though this book is the second one, and I put Jackaby (book one) in older elementary, I wanted to put this book in Young Adult because I think this series crosses over those levels. I can see an older student (5th/6th grade) who is a strong reader and can appreciate the wit enjoying the series while young adult readers would get a lot out of it as well. The language is more sophisticated, the humor a little dryer and closer to wit than "ha ha," and the mysteries can be a little gruesome at times. As I enjoyed book one, I was eager for the second book and not disappointed. Book 3 is already on my wish list. Abigail Rook once again follows her employer R.F. Jackaby on an adventure to determine what is reeking havoc on the small town Charlie (from book one) is now serving in his job as a policeman. I honestly did not pick up on the twist of what was going on and who was involved at all until it was revealed. It is not hard to determine what the "beast" is, but I did not make the connection (and was annoyed at myself afterwards!) to how in the world this beast appeared. I read some reviews that did not like this book as much, but I enjoyed it and am looking forward to learning more about the mystery surrounding Jenny, the ghostly inhabitant of their home/office, in book 3. These books are not for everyone, but there is definitely a niche that would find them as worthy to devour as I do.