68 pages • 2 hours read
Masterpiece
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Book Brief
292
Novel • Fiction
New York City • Contemporary
2008
Middle grade
8-12 years
700L
Super Short Summary
Masterpiece by Elise Broach follows Marvin, a beetle, and James, an eleven-year-old boy, as they team up to solve the mystery of a stolen drawing from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Marvin's artistic talent and their budding friendship lead them into an adventure involving a staged robbery, deceit, and a thrilling chase through the underground art world.
Mysterious
Adventurous
Heartwarming
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
8,684 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Elise Broach's Masterpiece is lauded for its charming and imaginative story, engaging young readers with its delightful mix of art history and adventure. Critics appreciate the well-crafted characters and the book's ability to inspire curiosity and creativity. However, some note that the plot may feel slow-paced at times and the resolution a bit predictable. Overall, it's a delightful read for middle graders.
Who Should Read Masterpiece?
Masterpiece by Elise Broach captivates Middle Grade readers aged 8-12 who enjoy mystery, friendship, and art. Fans of From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler and The One and Only Ivan will appreciate the blend of creativity and adventure as a young boy and a beetle collaborate to solve an art heist.
8,684 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
James
James
An observant and sensitive eleven-year-old boy with few friends, who communicates with Marvin through small movements and gestures.
Christina Balcony
Christina Balcony
A curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art with a passion for Albrecht Dürer, known for her kindness and attention to detail.
Karl Terik
Karl Terik
James’s father, an artist with a close relationship with his son, who takes an interest in showing James the world of art.
Denny
Denny
A rumpled-looking curator from the Getty Museum in California, who shares a passion for Dürer's works.
Mrs. Pompaday
Mrs. Pompaday
James's mother, preoccupied with appearances and social status, often prioritizing these over her son's needs.
292
Novel • Fiction
New York City • Contemporary
2008
Middle grade
8-12 years
700L
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