The Mystery of the Mad Science Teacher. (Marty Chan Mystery Series #3). Marty Chan. Saskatoon, SK: Thistledown Press, 2008. 198 pp., pbk, $10.95. ISBN 978-1-897235-38-6. Subject Headings: Chinese Canadian-Juvenile fiction. Theft-Detective and mystery stories. Grades 3-7 / Ages 8-12. Review by Jane Bridle. *** /4

excerpt:

The two things a guy can never take back are the over-sized baby blue sweater his aunt gives him for his birthday — and the promise he makes to a friend.

Right about now I wished I had the itchy sweater Big Auntie gave me last year, because I needed it to protect me from my promise to Remi Boudreau. I told my best friend I'd help him with slapshot practice. Little did I know this meant I had to stand in net while pucks flew at me like angry hornets. I reminded myself that Remi wanted to get the puck past me, but I also knew that the goal counted if the puck went through me.

 

Marty is back in the third novel in the “Marty Chan Mystery Series” which are set in the small town of Bouvier, AB, where Marty is the only Chinese boy. Having overcome bullies in The Mystery of the Graffiti Ghoul (nominated for the 2007 Arthur Ellis Award) and The Mystery of the Frozen Brains (winner of The 2005 City of Edmonton Book Award), Marty finds himself embroiled in solving another mystery. When former "mortal enemy" Trina discovers her bike is stolen, Marty and his best friend Remi follow clues that lead them to suspect that their new science teacher may be the thief. Marty, meanwhile, explores his new romantic feelings for Trina which are also shared by Remi.

      Boys especially will find Marty's escapades exciting and funny, and readers may also appreciate the lessons in loyalty and diversity. Marty Chan, the author of the series about his eponymous hero, offers a novel with lots of action and humour that will keep readers looking forward to the next title in the series.

Recommended.

Jane Bridle is a librarian with Winnipeg Public Library.

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