The original Eli Marks series follows the magic and mystery solving of Eli Marks. Well-received by the intended audience of older readers, you can find all 8 books along with an extensive podcast collection at the Eli Marks Mysteries website.

Author, John Gaspard, was not about to leave out the younger crowd. This first book intended for middle grade readers focuses on how Eli became a magician. The Curious Mysteries of Eli Marks is an engaging and fun ride, perfect for young fans of magic and mystery.

Thirteen-year-old Eli arrives at his aunt and uncle’s home in South Minneapolis where he will live with them following the death of his parents. They are older than his parents “like, by a lot”.

Not too concerning because Uncle Harry is a famous magician and the magic shop he owns with Aunt Alice can be found below their apartment. Eli even gets is own small apartment on the third floor.

Young Eli begins 7th grade and makes a few friends who are also interested in magic. His first person narration flows smoothly. Each of the first ten chapters end with a mystery, challenging readers to solve on their own. Hopefully you will do better than me as I only guessed right on 3 of them. The problem solving mystery approach adds even more interest to a unique and entertaining tale.

Another plus can be found in the final pages where ten magical tricks from the story are given step by step instructions for doing them yourself. Classic tricks using coins, cards and even a banana will keep one occupied for hours.

THE CURIOUS MYSTERIES OF ELI MARKS will appeal to both boys and girls. It’s a great addition to the middle grade shelves.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR, John Gaspard

John is author of the Eli Marks mystery series and the Como Lake Players mystery series. He also has four other stand-alone novels: “The Greyhound of the Baskervilles,” “A Christmas Carl,” “The Sword & Mr. Stone” and “The Ripperologists.”

He hosts two podcasts: “Behind the Page: The Eli Marks Podcast,” and “The Occasional Film Podcast.”

In real life, John’s not a magician, but he has directed six low-budget features that cost very little and made even less – that’s no small trick. He’s also written multiple books on the subject of low-budget filmmaking. Ironically, those books made more than the films.

John lives in Minnesota and shares his home with his lovely wife, several greyhounds, a few cats and a handful of pet allergies.

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It’s almost time for another Marvelous Middle Grade Monday. Won’t you join us? It’s here I share highlights from other individuals blogging about middle grade books. Many of the posts will have reviews, interviews, and tips on writing. Take a look at PAST MMGM POSTS.

It’s easy to get a spot in the lineup. All you have to do is email me the title of the book or feature and a link to your blog at gpcolo[at]gmail[dot]com

Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and don’t forget to say what you’re featuring) You MUST email me your link by Sunday evening (11 PM Eastern Time) in order to be included in the list of links for the coming Monday.

*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.