The Mysterious Messenger

Written by Gilbert Ford

A young psychic must uncover a ghost's secrets while seeking true friendship.

3.8/5 Goodreads · 179 ratings

320 pages

$16.99Save 6%

In stock. Also at Amazon.

Bookroo's summary

Eleven-year-old Maria de la Cruz, a genuine psychic, is under the control of her con artist mother, Madame Destine. With only a ghost named Edward as her friend, Maria embarks on a thrilling quest to solve a mystery involving Beat poets, art, and jazz. As she deciphers Edward's clues, Maria must navigate the challenges of finding a hidden treasure and discovering what true friendship means. Can she break free from her mother's grip and trust in her own abilities? Dive into this enchanting urban fantasy where secrets and friendships intertwine in unexpected ways.

From the publisher

The Mysterious Messenger is a rich middle grade urban fantasy debut starring young psychic Maria de la Cruz, by the award-winning artist Gilbert Ford. Eleven-year-old Maria de la Cruz is trapped under the thumb of Madame Destine, her pseudo-psychic mother. Destine is a bona fide con artist who will stop at nothing to swindle her customers into believing she can communicate with the dead. But Maria, unlike her mother, has a big secret–she really can communicate with the dead, most frequently with a ghost named Edward who has been her only friend since she was a child. It’s not long before this clairvoyant young sleuth gets wrapped up in an epic journey that combines bookish mystery with the literary movement of the Beat poets and art and jazz history. Maria may have the power to unlock extraordinary secrets, but can she find the treasure Edward sends her clues about? More importantly, can she find true friendship? This smart, big-hearted debut novel is perfect for fans of Book Scavenger, Winterhouse, and The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street. Christy Ottaviano Books

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