135. Far Out!

Far Out! Anne Bustard. 2023. 221 pages. [Source: Library] [Middle grade historical fiction; MG mystery]

First sentence: When your last name is "Crook" and your best friend is Nick Lawless and your daddy's the sheriff, then folks never forget you. That's A-OK by me. I'm proud to be Magnolia Jean Crook from Totter, Texas. Especially the Totter part. Especially now. Because we are fixing to host our First Annual Come On Down Day. In just one week our small town aims to welcome any and all space aliens who wish to visit. No RSVP required. 

Premise/plot: Historical mystery set in a small Texas town in 1964. Far Out! is just that--a bit far out. Magnolia (MJ) and Nick set out to solve a mystery. Someone has stolen a meteorite that was on display at the local public library. It is privately owned and was on borrow. The meteorite is found in MG's grandmother's shed--her grandma who admittedly does have keys to the library--is suffering from Alzheimer's. (Though they may not use that term exactly. Just "old age" and "forgetfulness"). These two kids believe that she is being framed by the real crook, and they have a list of suspects. But the sheriff and deputies must follow the clues...despite personal feelings and intuition. 

Meanwhile, the town continues to prepare for a HUGE celebration. (All this takes place in one week in November 1964). 

My thoughts: This was an odd read. The town wants a claim to fame and they are hoping that UFOs are the way to go. Though perhaps some are genuine believers? It blends the mystery of who stole the meteorite--and why--AND the town preparing for the UFO landing party. (Spoiler alert--no aliens come to visit; no UFOs are sighted.) I typically enjoy small town mysteries. I didn't not enjoy this one. It just wasn't my favorite in the genre.

 

© 2023 Becky Laney of Becky's Book Reviews