I just finished this children’s book by Ian Baucom. It’s a mystery set in Venice, a city I love reading about in any context. The main characters are three American children, a shopkeeper and three children from the time of the Arabian Nights tales. The story centers on a mysterious book containing these tales and three magic objects the children must make good use of while in their possession. A kidnapping of a friendly bookshop owner ensues, and the children encounter talking animals as protectors as they struggle to find their friend. The themes of honor, loyalty, friendship and family ties surface throughout the novel, and I think kids would enjoy the storyline. I would recommend it for ages 9 – 12.
