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Blue Balliett

Chasing Vermeer

Blue BalliettFiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2004

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Book Brief

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Blue Balliett

Chasing Vermeer

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chicago, Illinois • Contemporary

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

770L

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Super Short Summary

Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett follows two gifted sixth-graders, Petra Andalee and Calder Pillay, from the University of Chicago’s Laboratory School as they unravel an art mystery involving a stolen Vermeer painting. Using their unique skills with patterns, pentominoes, and codes, they navigate a series of puzzles to find the missing artwork, solve hidden clues, and uncover the thief in contemporary Hyde Park.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Informative

Adventurous

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

31,633 ratings

62%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett is celebrated for its clever integration of art, mystery, and puzzle-solving that appeals to young readers. The book's engaging storyline and unique illustrations by Brett Helquist receive praise. Some critics note that the plot can become convoluted and the characters occasionally lack depth. Nonetheless, its innovative approach to children's literature is widely admired.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Chasing Vermeer?

Readers who enjoy Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett are young sleuths aged 8-12 with a passion for mystery, art, and puzzles. Fans of The Westing Game or From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler will appreciate the clever, art-themed detective work and mind-bending challenges that this book offers.

4.2

31,633 ratings

62%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chicago, Illinois • Contemporary

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

770L

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