Summer Mystery & Thriller Books for Teens

The collection

1. Sneaks

   Amy Tern

   Sneaks is a delightful, suspenseful mystery that explores themes of bravery, self-improvement, and friendship through the eyes of two relatable tween protagonists.

   For: Middle grade readers, especially those who enjoy lighthearted whodunits and character-driven stories, will appreciate this charming debut novel.

   Strengths: The dual narrative voice, alternating between Valory's wit and Rook's vulnerability, adds depth and humor to the plot. Tern's writing is engaging, descriptive, and effectively balances humor and heart.

   Skip if: Some readers may find the pacing a bit uneven, with the mystery unfolding at a steady clip but the character development and emotional arcs playing out more gradually.

   Comparable: Fans of middle grade mysteries like Only Murders in the Building will enjoy the hijinks-heavy, neighborhood-set detective work in Sneaks, which shares a similar blend of humor, heart, and suspense.

   Buy on Bookshop.org

2. The Ginghams

   T. C. Kemper

   A creepy, fast-paced mystery with a strong focus on individuality and friendship, perfect for young readers who enjoy the sinister and strange.

   For: Middle grade readers who enjoy speculative fiction, mystery, and stories with a dark, eerie tone.

   Strengths: Expertly blends elements of horror and adventure, with well-developed characters and a tense, suspenseful plot that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

   Skip if: Some readers may find the transformation of the town's inhabitants to be a bit far-fetched, straining the suspension of disbelief.

   Comparable: Fans of eerie middle grade tales like 'Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children' or dark mysteries like 'The Graveyard Book' will find 'The Ginghams' right up their alley.

   “The kind of book readers will want to read in one sitting.”

   Buy on Bookshop.org

3. The Shrew Detective: The Case of the Pilfered Pearls (Shrew Detective #1) The Case of the Pilfered Pearls

   Margi Preus

   This charming mystery series starter offers an engaging blend of clever detective work, whimsical woodland creatures, and educational elements, perfect for advanced early readers and family read-alouds.

   For: Advanced early readers and families seeking a fun, educational mystery series.

   Strengths: Clever, well-laid-out mystery with scientific facts and vocabulary building; charming animal characters and illustrations.

   Skip if: Some readers may find the dense, wordy text and slower pace less engaging than quicker, more straightforward mysteries.

   Comparable: Fans of animal-centric mysteries like The Tale of Despereaux and The Great Mouse Detective will appreciate the Shrew Detectives series' similar blend of humor, adventure, and learning.

   “Delightful series starter...this pick will thrill advanced early readers and seems ready-made for family read-togethers. A pint-size and plucky delight!”

   Buy on Bookshop.org

4. The Case of the Scarlet Snakebite

   Christyne Morrell

   A clever, humorous whodunit that pays homage to classic mysteries, featuring a plucky young detective and a quirky cast of characters.

   For: Middle-grade readers who enjoy lighthearted, puzzle-filled mysteries with a dash of humor.

   Strengths: Engaging protagonist, witty dialogue, and a well-crafted, suspenseful plot that keeps readers guessing until the end.

   Skip if: Some readers may find the characters a bit one-dimensional and the resolution a tad convenient.

   Comparable: Fans of Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events, Carolyn Keene's Nancy Drew series, and other lighthearted, amateur detective stories will enjoy this book.

   “A fun-filled homage to cozy mystery classics.”

   Buy on Bookshop.org