The Sherlock Society returns for a third book in the series. This plot is driven by a new case: finding a secretive graffiti artist known as Funky Munky, whose work often criticizes local politicians and businesses. Alex, Zoe, Lina, and Yadi, the now well-known Sherlock Society, have been hired by a developer who wants this person’s work for a new mural at a hotel. He promises a nice payout to the group.
It becomes more challenging as their investigation occurs during Miami Art Week and many artists are in town. Using a very smart sting operation, they eliminate suspects until there is just one remaining. The results aren’t what they expect.
I won’t give away any more in the fun, intricate plot. Young Alex narrates the tale that will engage the reader through 32 chapters. There are references to the previous book, Hurricane Heist, but you can read this one on its own.
The Sherlock Society Art Attack will appeal to those who love a good mystery combined with a compelling cast of characters. I sure hope we’ll see this group back with a new case like the one hinted at in the final pages featuring Area Fifty-Two in the Everglades.
BOOK BIRTHDAY: Sept. 8, 2026 PAGES:320
FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE SHERLOCK SOCIETY ART ATTACK by James Ponti
- Grandpa is exactly that and more to Alex and Zoe. He is a memorable adult who helps them with their case. His sense of humor and the Cadillac he drives put him at the top of adult characters in the story.
- The focus on the Miami art scene and the graffiti artists was a plus. I knew little about this world before reading all about it as the center stone in the plot.
- The Sherlock Society seems real and possible given the amazing formation of the story. Nothing is left for chance.
- Spirit week at the school was a fun inclusion, especially for 12-year-old Alex who is not into this type of thing. He learns after the first day mini-disaster and actually enjoys the remaining dress-up days.
- The balance of action, times of friendship, and tense moments were balanced to perfection.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
James Ponti is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of four Middle Grade book series, including City Spies and The Sherlock Society. His novels have been named to more than seventy state award lists, translated into sixteen languages, and sold over one million copies. City Spies has been optioned by Amazon MGM Studios for development as a film franchise. He’s a two-time Edgar Award-nominee, winning in 2018 for Vanished!
James was born in Italy and grew up in Atlantic Beach, Florida, where he could usually be found on the beach, at the movies, or playing sports. Despite being a reluctant reader, he decided to become a writer in the fifth grade.
A graduate of the University of Southern California’s film school, he spent thirty years working in television, first as a scriptwriter for Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, and PBS; and then as a writer/producer for History Channel, Spike TV, Golf Channel, and NBC Sports. He wrote, produced, and co-directed the Emmy-nominated documentary 27 Years: The Exoneration of Valentino Dixon.
He loves to travel with his family and visit museums, historic landmarks, major league baseball parks, and, most of all, bookstores. He lives in Orlando, Florida. (Author Website)
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