Sharp Stuff

Mickey Sharp, teenage detective, is determined to solve the case given to him by a beautiful girl, even though it means cutting classes, bunking off detentions and running the gauntlet of a playground fight to do it.

Grade 5-7-In this unabridged recording of the book by British author Dominic Barker, disingenuous, funny, and well-meaning 14-year-old Mickey Sharp takes his first detective case, charged with finding out who is bullying the younger brother of a dishy "older" (she's 15!) woman. Disguising himself in a rival school's uniform, Mickey infiltrates the playground and uncovers a well-organized gang of teenage thugs shaking down younger students. After a few false starts, he comes up with an ingenious plan to stop them for good. As the voice of Mickey, Steven Pacey delivers just the right blend of teenage angst and introspection. Despite the liberal use of English slang, listeners, especially those in the lower and middle elementary grades, will identify with Mickey's underdog role, cheer him on, and relish his ultimate victory of right over might.
Cindy Lombardo, Orrville Public Library, OH
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Mickey Sharp, a clever 14-year-old who sets up a detective agency in his backyard shed, is delighted when the beautiful Madeleine brings him a mystery: She believes her younger brother is being bullied. Nothing stops Mickey as he dons the school uniform of a neighboring school and attempts to crack the case--and win Madeleine. Narrator Steven Pacey deftly recreates schoolyard chaos and classroom antics as the witty Mickey takes on bullies, parents, and teachers and solves his case. This fun yarn doubles as a good lesson for kids who have problems in school. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine