
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the uncertainty of a parent's sudden career change or the stress of financial hardship at home. Set against the vibrant, disco-infused backdrop of 1977, this mystery provides a safe space for middle-grade readers to explore feelings of displacement and the pressure to help their family when things get tough. Zeke's journey is one of resilience, as he navigates a summer working for a traveling show after his father's job loss. While the plot involves a fun historical mystery involving King Tut's artifacts, the heart of the story lies in the bond between a father and son. It is a perfect choice for kids ages 8 to 12 who enjoy puzzles and need to see that even when life feels chaotic, loyalty and curiosity can lead to a sense of belonging.
The book deals directly and realistically with economic instability and the shame a child might feel regarding a parent's unemployment. The approach is secular and grounded in 1970s realism, offering a hopeful resolution where the family remains intact despite ongoing financial struggles.
A 10-year-old who feels the weight of adult problems at home and uses logic, puzzles, or writing as a way to process their changing world.
This can be read cold. Parents might want to explain the historical context of the 1970s 'Tut-mania' to help the child understand the scale of the setting. A parent might see their child becoming unusually observant of family finances or acting out due to a sudden change in lifestyle or living situation.
Younger readers will focus on the 'whodunit' mystery and the cool artifacts, while older readers will better appreciate the nuances of Zeke's pride and his desire to protect his father's dignity.
Unlike many historical mysteries, this book blends high-concept entertainment (disco and King Tut) with a very grounded, relatable depiction of a family surviving a recession.
Zeke Moorie is a fourteen-year-old in 1977 whose life is upended when his father loses his job. To make ends meet, Zeke and his dad join a traveling disco show that accompanies the blockbuster King Tut exhibition. Amidst the glitz and polyester, Zeke discovers a series of deliberate sabotages. Using his journal to track clues, he must determine if the mishaps are caused by an ancient curse or a more modern betrayal among the crew.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review