Discovery in Great Sand Dunes National Park: A Mystery Adventure (National Park Mystery Series)

We purchased both the Kindle and print version of this book. After reading Book 1 (Mystery in Rocky Mountain National Park) my 9-year-old son couldn’t wait to read the next book, and this book did not disappoint.So yes, this is Book 2 of a ten book series. The premise of the series is that the main character, Jake, is on a scavenger hunt through ten National Parks. The scavenger hunt was set up for him by his grandpa, who dies just before the start of the first book and leaves him all the clues. I think it would be possible to enjoy this book as a stand-alone book. However, I think really is better as part of the series. There are several things that link from this book to the previous book, besides just character development and back-story. There’s also set-up for the next book.This book held my 9-year-old son’s interest through the whole story (his 6-year-old brother also wanted to sit and listen to the whole second half of the book). There is quite a bit of adventure that happens in the story – at several points my son was jumping up and down because he was so excited by the action. There are a few spots where the pacing is a little slower and Aaron Johnson has worked in educational information – like about how the sand dunes form, or information about activities at the park. As a mom, I think it’s a great (sneaky) way to make learning about Great Sand Dunes National Park seem fun and not like obvious studying.Like the first book, this book alternates between two story lines: one that happens in 1880 and one that happens in present day (2019). Most of the action occurs in the present-day story, which involves the scavenger hunt and solving clues/cyphers/riddles. These clues are appropriate for the target age of the book. Often, they were clear enough that my son could get a little on the right track but not really figure them out. He felt rewarded being able to get them partway/close, but still found it exciting when the answers were revealed because it was usually not exactly what he guessed. Also, besides the “designated” clues, there are links between the two story lines that become more obvious as the book goes on. We both had fun trying to guess how the two story lines would end up fitting together. And while the book is geared for kids, I myself found it enjoyable to read with my son because I also liked trying to puzzle together the pieces (in fact when the hard copy of the book arrived I read ahead a little because I wanted to know what would happen).Within the context of being exciting and educational, the book also gives some good values: the importance of being a good friend, the importance of being honest, and being brave in the face of danger. The reading level is something that seems appropriate for 8-12 age. For a reader on the younger side that reads more slowly, the length of the book may be a bit challenging for them to get through on their own, or at least will take some time.Overall, what I enjoyed most about the book:-Mentions real places in the National Park to learn and appreciate the park more. Plus, made my kids more excited to go visit the park, which we plan to do one day.-Interesting story line that even an adult can enjoy trying to puzzle through.-Seeing how much my son enjoyed the book and the look excitement on his face every time something happened that tied to other clues or previous action.I asked my son what he enjoyed about the book. His first response was EVERYTHING. Then, he gave me a few of his more specific favorites (spoilers removed):-The descriptions used in the book were good because then he could imagine the places and people in his mind.-There were often several levels to the clues, so that you might think you know the answer to a clue and then find out a new piece of information that makes you go back and rethink your answer to come up with a new one.-You learn the history of how the place came to be there and how what happened in 1880 is related to present day.-There are some funny parts and lots of exciting parts.-There are hints of what might be coming in later books in the series.Overall, I highly recommend this book. Probably best for age 8-12, but I think younger and older kids could enjoy it, too.

I’m a mom of two kids, ages 7 and 9, as well as a teacher. All I can say is that these books are awesome! We read a couple of chapters before bed each night but the kids started grabbing the book any time we had a free minute wanting me to read more. The stories have great deep plots that intertwine and keep the story moving and turning in all sorts of directions. I appreciate the fact that there are intense moments but nothing that has become too scary for my seven year old. The flipping of time caught my 9-year-old off guard when he tried to read these by himself. But reading it together fixed that quickly. I have been recommending this series to anyone looking for a great read. We enjoy camping and visiting the parks. My husband is already talking about doing another road trip to visit some of the places mentioned in the books just to bring them to life for the kids. I love that real information is presented in the back. The kids are always amazed at what actually exists. Thanks for making a great series!!! We look forward to continuing to read these as they become available!

So far, I have read the first two books in the series and I own all five of them. They are just great! You learn so much about each park and you get to interact with cool kids who are trying to solve a mystery. Very enjoyable.

The story continues with the same main characters. The first book was really good and my granddaughter is really enjoying this series. She is only 7 but is a very advanced reader. The story lines are fun and wholesome.

great book for adventures. well wrote and nice drawings,

Book 2 is not as cool or funny as book 1. But it is still really cool. My favorite part is when Jake got a new knife.

My granddaughter and I are enjoying this series. I love that the locations and their descriptions are accurate. The story moves back and forth between present day and the 1880's. The transitions are easy to follow and fit well with the story. The problems the children encounter and their solutions are believable.

This is the first book in an incredibly engaging series. We read this together as a family with my 9 year old twins. They literally asked for more with every chapter, and had us order the rest of the series. We loved all 3 of the books already published.The writing is excellent. The character development, scenery and stories are described in depth. The mystery plot lines are fascinating. I am enjoying it as much as my kids, so much that I emailed the author to find out when the next one will be out.A+!