
The Maze of Bones
by Rick Riordan1 of 17
When Grace Cahill dies, she leaves her descendants a choice that will change their lives forever: take one million dollars and walk away, or receive a clue that leads to the source of the family's world-altering power. For orphaned siblings Amy and Dan Cahill, the choice is clear. They embark on a high-stakes global scavenger hunt to find the 39 clues hidden throughout history, competing against ruthless relatives who will stop at nothing to win. This fast-paced adventure is perfect for children who love solving puzzles and uncovering secrets alongside the protagonists.
As the first book in a massive multi-author series, The Maze of Bones introduces a world where historical figures like Napoleon and Houdini were all part of the same powerful family. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in history, geography, and action-packed mysteries. Parents will appreciate how the story encourages critical thinking and research, making it a great choice for fans of Rick Riordan's other legendary series. The blend of real-world locations and fictional intrigue makes it a page-turner for even the most reluctant readers.
Highlights:
- A thrilling global scavenger hunt filled with historical secrets and puzzles.
- Relatable sibling dynamics between the studious Amy and the mischievous Dan.
- High-stakes competition against a cast of colorful and dangerous villains.
- An engaging introduction to world history and famous historical figures.

The Maze of Bones
by Gordon Korman1 of 17
The Maze of Bones kicks off an adrenaline-fueled global scavenger hunt that is perfect for children who love solving puzzles and uncovering historical secrets. When Amy and Dan Cahill are faced with a life-changing choice following their grandmother's death, they choose to hunt for 39 clues that lead to the source of their family's immense power. This high-stakes adventure takes readers on a whirlwind journey across the globe, blending real history with heart-pounding mystery.
Ideal for readers interested in fast-paced action and complex riddles, this book is a great choice for fans of high-stakes competition. As Amy and Dan travel to distant lands like Australia to uncover what their parents knew, they must face off against dangerous relatives and confront painful memories. It is an engaging read that encourages critical thinking and curiosity about world history, geography, and the bonds of family.
Highlights:
- Interactive mystery elements that keep readers engaged with puzzles and codes.
- Strong sibling dynamic between the studious Amy and the adventurous Dan.
- Educational blend of historical facts and international travel settings.
- Perfect for reluctant readers due to its fast pacing and frequent cliffhangers.

One False Note
by Gordon Korman2 of 17
In the second installment of the global sensation The 39 Clues, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill find themselves in a heart-pounding race across Europe. After discovering a mysterious sheet of music in Vienna, the duo must follow the trail of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart to find the next clue. However, they aren't the only ones on the hunt. Their wealthy and dangerous relatives are hot on their heels, willing to do anything—from hotel break-ins to high-speed boat chases—to stop them. This fast-paced adventure is perfect for children who love solving puzzles and enjoy stories filled with international intrigue.
Gordon Korman brings his signature humor and high-energy writing to this sequel, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in history, geography, and complex mysteries. As Amy and Dan navigate the streets of Venice and the secrets of the past, they must learn to trust each other and rely on their unique strengths to survive. Great choice for fans of A Series of Unfortunate Events or The Mysterious Benedict Society, this book keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
Highlights:
- Non-stop action featuring speedboat chases and narrow escapes.
- Intriguing historical connections to Mozart and classical music.
- Strong focus on sibling teamwork and overcoming family rivalry.
- Engaging puzzle-solving elements that encourage critical thinking.

One False Note
by Rick Riordan2 of 17
In One False Note, the second installment of the high-octane The 39 Clues series, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill find themselves in a heart-pounding race across Europe. Following a trail of musical clues left by the legendary composer Mozart, the duo must navigate the streets of Vienna and Salzburg while staying one step ahead of their ruthless relatives. With the secret of their family's immense power hanging in the balance, every note played and every secret uncovered brings them closer to the truth—or to a deadly trap.
This book is perfect for children who love fast-paced mysteries and interactive adventures. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in history, music, and global travel, blending real-world facts with a fictional scavenger hunt. Parents will appreciate how the story encourages critical thinking and historical curiosity, making it a great choice for fans of Rick Riordan's other works or those who enjoy solving puzzles alongside the protagonists.
Highlights:
- A thrilling globe-trotting adventure that blends history with mystery.
- Focuses on the importance of teamwork and the bond between siblings.
- Engaging plot that keeps reluctant readers turning pages.
- Educational elements featuring Mozart and European history.

The Sword Thief
by Peter Lerangis3 of 17
In the third installment of the high-octane 39 Clues series, The Sword Thief follows Amy and Dan Cahill as they travel to Japan. After a narrow escape in Venice, the siblings find themselves in an uneasy alliance with their notoriously unreliable uncle, Alistair Oh. Together, they track the history of one of the world's most legendary warriors, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. This fast-paced adventure is perfect for children who love solving puzzles and exploring world history through a lens of suspense and intrigue.
As the hunt for the 39 Clues intensifies, the stakes become lethal. Readers will be gripped by the shifting loyalties and the dangerous secrets of the Ekaterina branch. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in Japanese culture, samurai history, and complex family dynamics. It offers a thrilling mix of educational historical facts and fictional espionage that keeps young readers turning pages until the very end.
Highlights:
- Action-packed scavenger hunt across Japan and South Korea.
- Intriguing historical puzzles involving ancient samurai swords.
- Complex character development as Amy and Dan learn who to trust.
- Great choice for fans of Percy Jackson and National Treasure.

The Sword Thief
by Gordon Korman3 of 17
In the third installment of the pulse-pounding 39 Clues series, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill find themselves in Japan, following a trail of ancient secrets left by their powerful ancestors. After a narrow escape from Venice, the stakes have never been higher as they realize that in this race, trust is the most dangerous weapon of all. This fast-paced adventure is perfect for children who love puzzles and high-stakes mysteries that span the globe.
As Amy and Dan navigate the neon lights of Tokyo and the historical depths of Korea, they must decide if they can truly rely on their eccentric Uncle Alistair. With the rival Cahill clans closing in, the duo uses their wits and historical knowledge to stay one step ahead. This book is ideal for readers interested in world history, geography, and complex riddles that keep them guessing until the very last page.
Gordon Korman delivers a masterclass in middle-grade suspense, making this a great choice for fans of Percy Jackson or A Series of Unfortunate Events. It combines educational historical facts with an adrenaline-charged plot that encourages critical thinking and perseverance.
Highlights:
- An action-packed global scavenger hunt across Japan and Korea.
- Complex puzzles and historical mysteries involving famous figures.
- Themes of family loyalty and learning who to trust in difficult situations.
- Fast-paced chapters that are perfect for reluctant readers.

The Sword Thief
by Rick Riordan3 of 17
In The Sword Thief, the third installment of the adrenaline-fueled 39 Clues series, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill find themselves in Japan, continuing their high-stakes hunt for the source of their family's immense power. After a narrow escape from Venice, they must now navigate the dangerous streets of Tokyo and the ancient history of the samurai. With their untrustworthy Uncle Alistair Oh as an uneasy ally, the stakes have never been higher as they race against their ruthless relatives to find the next clue.
This book is ideal for readers interested in fast-paced action, global travel, and complex puzzles. It is perfect for children who love Rick Riordan’s signature blend of humor and suspense. Parents looking for an engaging series that encourages critical thinking and an interest in world history will find this an excellent choice. The interactive nature of the series, combined with its cinematic pacing, makes it a great choice for reluctant readers who crave excitement on every page.
Highlights:
- A thrilling global scavenger hunt that spans across Japan.
- Complex family dynamics and themes of trust and betrayal.
- Engaging historical facts woven into a modern-day mystery.
- Fast-paced chapters that keep young readers hooked.

Beyond the Grave
by Gordon Korman4 of 17
Beyond the Grave is the fourth pulse-pounding installment in the bestselling The 39 Clues series. In this adventure, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill travel to Egypt, following a trail of ancient secrets left by their grandmother, Grace. As they navigate the bustling streets of Cairo and the silent tombs of the Nile, they must outsmart their ruthless relatives who will stop at nothing to claim the ultimate power of the Cahill family. This book is perfect for children who love fast-paced action, historical puzzles, and high-stakes treasure hunts.
Gordon Korman brings his signature humor and suspense to this globe-trotting mystery. Readers will be captivated by the blend of real history and fictional intrigue, making it ideal for readers interested in archaeology, world travel, and family secrets. As Amy and Dan uncover more about their parents' mysterious past, they learn that the race for the 39 clues is about much more than just winning—it's about finding where they truly belong. It is a great choice for fans of Percy Jackson or The Mysterious Benedict Society.
Highlights:
- An action-packed journey through the historical landmarks of Egypt.
- Complex puzzles and codes that keep young readers engaged and thinking.
- Strong themes of sibling loyalty and overcoming grief.
- A perfect entry point for kids who enjoy interactive storytelling and mystery.

Beyond the Grave
by Rick Riordan4 of 17
Beyond the Grave is the pulse-pounding fourth installment in the global phenomenon The 39 Clues series. Written by master storyteller Rick Riordan, this book follows Amy and Dan Cahill as they travel to Egypt in search of the next clue that will unlock their family's legendary power. This high-stakes adventure is perfect for children who love solving puzzles, uncovering historical secrets, and following a fast-paced race against time. As the siblings navigate ancient tombs and outsmart dangerous rivals, they must also grapple with the mysterious past of their own parents.
Ideal for readers interested in world history and interactive mysteries, this book combines real-world facts with a fictional scavenger hunt that spans the globe. Parents looking for engaging series to keep their middle-grade readers hooked will find this an excellent choice. It encourages critical thinking and curiosity about different cultures while delivering a cinematic reading experience. Whether your child is a fan of Percy Jackson or loves a good detective story, the Cahill siblings' journey offers the perfect blend of suspense and heart.
Highlights:
- Action-packed scavenger hunt across Egypt and ancient landmarks.
- Strong focus on sibling teamwork and overcoming family secrets.
- Includes historical facts about Napoleon and ancient Egyptian mythology.
- Part of a multi-platform experience involving cards and online games.

The Black Circle
by Gordon Korman5 of 17
The Black Circle is the pulse-pounding fifth installment in the global phenomenon series, The 39 Clues. Following the adventures of orphaned siblings Amy and Dan Cahill, this book takes readers on a high-stakes journey across the globe as they hunt for the source of their family's immense power. Faced with a choice between a million dollars or a clue, Amy and Dan choose the path of discovery, leading them into a world of secret societies, historical mysteries, and dangerous rivals. This book is perfect for children who love fast-paced action and puzzles that challenge their wits.
Ideal for readers interested in history and geography, Gordon Korman delivers a masterclass in suspense. As Amy and Dan delve deeper into the Cahill family's past, they must decide who to trust in a race where everyone—from world leaders to famous magicians—is a potential relative or a deadly enemy. It is a great choice for fans of interactive storytelling and those who enjoy uncovering hidden secrets alongside the protagonists.
Highlights:
- A thrilling global scavenger hunt filled with historical intrigue and real-world locations.
- Strong themes of sibling loyalty and perseverance under extreme pressure.
- Engaging mystery elements that encourage readers to solve puzzles alongside the characters.
- Part of a multi-platform experience that includes trading cards and an online game.

The Black Circle
by Rick Riordan5 of 17
The Black Circle is the pulse-pounding fifth installment in the global phenomenon The 39 Clues series. In this high-stakes adventure, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill find themselves lured to Russia by a mysterious telegram. As they race against their ruthless relatives to uncover the next clue, they must navigate the secrets of the Romanov royal family and the dark history of the Cold War. This book is perfect for children who love fast-paced action, historical puzzles, and stories where young heroes must outsmart dangerous villains.
Ideal for readers interested in world history and geography, Rick Riordan delivers a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling. As Amy and Dan dig deeper into their family's past, they begin to realize that the source of the Cahill power is more complex than they ever imagined. It is a great choice for fans of scavenger hunts and interactive mysteries who enjoy piecing together clues alongside the characters.
Highlights:
- A thrilling race across Russia filled with historical intrigue and hidden secrets.
- Strong focus on the evolving bond and teamwork between siblings Amy and Dan.
- Engaging blend of real-world history and fictional mystery that keeps readers guessing.
- Part of an interactive multi-media series that encourages deep engagement.

In Too Deep
by Jude Watson6 of 17
In the sixth installment of the global phenomenon The 39 Clues, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill travel to the Land Down Under. As the race for the clues intensifies, the stakes have never been higher. This action-packed mystery is perfect for children who love high-stakes adventures and puzzle-solving. Following in their parents' footsteps, Amy and Dan must confront painful memories and deadly enemies while navigating the treacherous landscape of Australia.
Ideal for readers interested in world travel, family secrets, and historical mysteries, In Too Deep challenges everything the Cahill siblings thought they knew about their family. With danger lurking around every corner, they must decide who to trust in a world where even friends can be enemies. This book is a great choice for fans of fast-paced series like Percy Jackson or The Mysterious Benedict Society.
Highlights:
- A thrilling global scavenger hunt that combines history and geography.
- Deepens the emotional stakes as Amy and Dan uncover secrets about their parents.
- Fast-paced action that keeps reluctant readers engaged from start to finish.
- Explores complex themes of trust, betrayal, and the bonds of family.

The Viper's Nest
by Gordon Korman7 of 17
The Viper's Nest is the thrilling seventh installment in the global phenomenon The 39 Clues series. Amy and Dan Cahill find themselves in a race against time and their own treacherous relatives as they hunt for the next clue in South Africa. This high-octane adventure is perfect for children who love fast-paced mysteries, international travel, and solving complex puzzles alongside relatable protagonists. As the stakes get higher, the siblings must confront shocking secrets about their family's past that could change everything they thought they knew. The tension is palpable as they realize that the people they are supposed to trust might be their greatest enemies.
Ideal for readers interested in history, geography, and code-breaking, this book keeps young audiences on the edge of their seats with speedboat chases, narrow escapes, and an ever-thickening plot. It is a great choice for fans of Percy Jackson or The Mysterious Benedict Society who crave a mix of action and intellectual challenge. Gordon Korman delivers a masterclass in suspense that will leave middle-grade readers eager to uncover the next secret in the Cahill legacy. Whether they are decoding hidden messages or outrunning an angry mob, Amy and Dan's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and wit.
Highlights:
- High-stakes global scavenger hunt across South Africa.
- Deepening mystery surrounding the Cahill family history and the Madrigals.
- Action-packed sequences including speedboat chases and narrow escapes.
- Strong focus on sibling teamwork, resilience, and problem-solving.
- Engaging blend of historical facts and fictional suspense.

The Viper's Nest
by Peter Lerangis7 of 17
In The Viper's Nest, the seventh installment of the thrilling The 39 Clues series, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill find themselves in South Africa. As they continue their high-stakes global scavenger hunt for the sources of their family's power, they must follow the trail of a formidable ancestor: the legendary military leader Shaka Zulu. This installment is perfect for children who love fast-paced action, complex puzzles, and learning about world history through an engaging narrative.
As the hunt intensifies, Amy and Dan face their most dangerous challenges yet, including betrayal from within their own family and the looming threat of the mysterious Madrigals. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in ancient warfare, global travel, and stories where young protagonists must use their wits to outsmart powerful enemies. It is a great choice for fans of series like Percy Jackson or A Series of Unfortunate Events who enjoy a mix of mystery and historical intrigue.
Highlights:
- Explores the history and legacy of Shaka Zulu and the Zulu Kingdom.
- Features intense puzzle-solving and code-breaking elements.
- Deepens the mystery of the Cahill family branches and their secrets.
- Fast-paced plot that keeps middle-grade readers on the edge of their seats.

The Emperor's Code
by Gordon Korman8 of 17
The Emperor's Code is the eighth thrilling installment in the global phenomenon series, The 39 Clues. In this high-stakes adventure, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill find themselves in China, racing against their ruthless relatives to uncover a secret that has been hidden for centuries. As they navigate the crowded streets of Beijing and the majestic Great Wall, they must solve complex puzzles related to the last Emperor of China. This book is perfect for children who love fast-paced action, historical mysteries, and stories about clever kids outsmarting dangerous adults.
Gordon Korman brings his signature humor and tension to this volume, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in world history and geography. The stakes have never been higher as the siblings face internal conflicts and external threats, testing their bond like never before. It is a great choice for fans of scavenger hunts and international intrigue who enjoy series like Percy Jackson or A Series of Unfortunate Events.
Highlights:
- Action-packed race across iconic Chinese landmarks like the Great Wall.
- Intriguing historical puzzles involving the Forbidden City and ancient culture.
- Deepening character development and emotional sibling dynamics.
- Fast-paced plot that keeps even reluctant readers engaged from start to finish.

Into the Gauntlet
by Margaret Peterson Haddix10 of 17
In the thrilling conclusion to the first arc of The 39 Clues, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill reach the end of their global scavenger hunt. After traveling across five continents and uncovering secrets about their family's historical influence, they must face the ultimate test in the mountains of Switzerland. Into the Gauntlet is a high-stakes finale where the duo must decide what to do with the ultimate power they have fought so hard to find. It is a perfect choice for children who love fast-paced action, complex puzzles, and stories about the bonds of family.
Ideal for readers interested in history and geography, this book combines real-world facts with a fictional race against time. Margaret Peterson Haddix masterfully brings the series to a close, challenging the protagonists to succeed where their famous ancestors failed. This book is a great choice for fans of Percy Jackson or The Mysterious Benedict Society who enjoy seeing young heroes outsmart dangerous villains through wit and teamwork.
Highlights:
- The epic conclusion to a worldwide mystery adventure.
- Explores deep themes of family legacy and moral choices.
- Fast-paced plot filled with puzzles and historical trivia.
- Features relatable protagonists who grow significantly throughout the series.

Vespers Rising
by Rick Riordan11 of 17
Amy and Dan Cahill thought their life-changing quest was finally over after discovering the 39 Clues. However, in Vespers Rising, they realize that the hunt was only the beginning. A terrifying new enemy known as the Vespers has emerged from the shadows, and they will stop at nothing to seize power. This installment serves as a crucial bridge in the series, blending modern-day thrills with deep-reaching historical secrets that date back centuries.
Ideal for readers interested in fast-paced mysteries and global adventures, this book is perfect for children who love solving puzzles alongside their favorite characters. Rick Riordan and a team of powerhouse authors deliver a story packed with international intrigue, sibling dynamics, and high-stakes action. It is a great choice for fans of the Percy Jackson series or anyone who enjoys a race against time where the fate of the world hangs in the balance.
Highlights:
- Explores the hidden history of the Cahill family founders across different eras.
- High-stakes global adventure filled with complex puzzles and secret codes.
- Features strong sibling bonds and significant character growth for Amy and Dan.
- A perfect transition for fans moving into the Cahills vs. Vespers story arc.
