The Unknowns: A Math Mystery

The Unknowns is a story about two kids, Tom Jones and Lady Di, who live in a Trailer Park called Adjacent. The mystery begins with local residents disappearing and continues on with action, secrets, and intriguing clues. Following the main characters through school, turmoil with peers, and spy-kid challenges, the reader is drawn easily into the adventuring lives of Tom and Di. But this is where Carey brings it home - weaving math equations, maps, math history, and geometry into the story, the reader is challenged through this fresh, fun mystery. I was impressed by his ability to depict such accessible characters who are simultaneously brave and awkward, and who experience the normal blunders of early adolescence. The Unknowns is an unexpected find that also offers a great opportunity for dialogue between parents and children. Carey's ability to move the plot forward with empowered yet human characters that rely on creative problem-solving is sure to be a draw for a broad audience. The Unknowns leaves any reader smiling and thinking -"Finally, something new, sharp, and moving!" I would recommend it to other parents, kids, teachers, and even grandparents and the illustrations are wonderful!!

I have to be honest, math is my Achilles Heel. I have never enjoyed it and aside from a random B in geometry, I was a consistent average-to-below average "math" student, which is why I approached this book with trepidation. I didn't think the mystery would engage me. 20 pages into The Unknowns, I was captivated. The lovable main characters and their witty voices combined with the vivid descriptions of life in Adjacent made this a very smooth and enjoyable read. I appreciate a well written story with round characters that are appealing to a broad audience, which is what Benedict Carey accomplishes with The Unknowns. I encouraged my ten-year old to read the book when I finished and wondered if some of the math elements would confuse him (I'm just assuming he's inherited the gene of "fear of math.") and he is understanding and enjoying the book. There are elements of this book that remind me of other great juvenile fiction books like Bridge to Terabithia, Chasing Vermeer or Hatchet.