The case of the stolen sculpture

In this book from the Museum Mysteries series, four brainy young sleuths, Clementine Wim (13), Raining Sam (12), Amal Farah (11), and Wilson Kipper (10) solve the mystery of who has stolen the priceless Statue of Gudea from the Capitol City Art Museum, where Clementine's mom, Dr. Abigail Wim, works as an assistant curator. Strangely, the museum's staff doesn't seem very anxious to recover the statue or perhaps that's not so strange, because the insurance money will now make it possible for the museum to open a new educational wing. Although most readers will quickly deduce whodunit, the racially and ethnically diverse characters are appealing, and kids will envy their behind-the-scenes access. Full-color, full-page illustrations suggest graphic-novel or even cartoon art, and back matter includes a glossary, discussion questions, writing prompts, and information about actual museums and notable artists. Give this to young mystery readers who aren't quite ready for Nancy Drew.--Rawlins, Sharon Copyright 2010 Booklist