The Skeleton Puzzle
This book is the third in the Goldfish Boy series which revisits the homes of Matthew, Melody and Jake from Chestnut Close.
When a long-buried skeleton is found in their neighbour Old Nina’s garden this dynamic trio take it upon themselves to investigate. The friends soon find themselves embroiled in neighbourhood drama, including the mysterious return of Old Nina’s supposedly long-lost son. With such an intriguing mystery to solve this book is a real page-turner. Thompson has created a main character in Jake that readers will really want to support and see succeed. His friends also struggle with their own issues such as OCD and self-acceptance and this is handled meaningfully throughout the story. Full of humour and heart, the story also touches on some more serious issues such as Jake’s Mum’s struggle with depression. But finally, with the help of good neighbours a happy outcome is found.
The Skeleton Puzzle explores themes of trust and friendship and shows how even young friends can be a support to each other. It helps remind readers of the importance of good friends and how relying on other people can be a good thing. An enjoyable, funny and a must-read for fans of this series.
