Books About Student Detectives

The Best Student Detectives Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about student detectives? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 4 Favorite Books About Student Detectives

The Hand on the Wall
Sale price
$1498
Chapter Book · Ages 14–+ · 2020

The Hand on the Wall

A storm, a murderer, and a mystery unsolved. Can Stevie connect the dots before it's too late?

384 pages· 82,952 words· Est. 7.5 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 98,835 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Paperback
Summary: Stevie Bell faces her toughest challenge yet at Ellingham Academy. With three deaths, a missing friend, and a storm approaching, she must unravel a tangled web of past and present mysteries. As the academy evacuates, Stevie stays behind, determined to confront the truth and a lurking murderer. Can she solve the case that has haunted the academy for decades, or will the storm claim more than just secrets? Dive into a world of riddles and suspense where every clue could be the key to survival.
The Vanishing Stair
Sale price
$1498
Chapter Book · Ages 14–+ · 2019

The Vanishing Stair

A deadly mystery at Ellingham Academy demands answers, but the truth comes at a cost.

400 pages· 85,565 words· Est. 8 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 113,519 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Paperback
Summary: Stevie Bell is obsessed with solving the infamous Truly Devious case—a kidnapping and murder at Ellingham Academy. Pulled from school after a classmate's death, Stevie strikes a risky deal to return. As she navigates secrets and lies, including those of her enigmatic friend David, Stevie must unravel a historical riddle with deadly implications. Can she uncover the truth before it's too late, or will the past claim another victim?
I Know You Started It
Sale price
$858
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2026

I Know You Started It

A school fire ignites suspicion. Can four students uncover the truth before one is blamed?

240 pages· 37,540 words· Est. 4 hour read
3.7 Goodreads · 352 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: When a fire erupts at their middle school, Eva, Dani, Liam, and Gabe must unravel the mystery before one of them is accused. As they delve into rumors and secrets, the arsonist seems to anticipate their every move. With scarce evidence and mounting tension, can they solve the mystery in time? This thrilling whodunit challenges them to navigate a web of deceit and danger, where every lead could be a trap. Will they uncover the truth, or will the real culprit remain hidden in the shadows?
A Copycat Conundrum
Sale price
$1398
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2025

A Copycat Conundrum

By Lisa Yee, Dan Santat (Illustrator) · Book #2 in the The Misfits series

San Francisco quakes and mysterious notes lead the Misfits into a puzzling case.

288 pages· 51,870 words· Est. 7 hour read
4.0 Goodreads · 512 ratings
$14.99Save 7%
Hardcover
Summary: San Francisco is rocked by bizarre earthquakes and priceless art thefts. The Misfits, led by Olive, must unravel the mystery as their classmate Zeke receives ominous notes. Is Zeke hiding something, or is there a larger plot at play? Join this elite team of underdogs as they tackle their most perplexing case yet, where every clue could lead to a surprising twist.
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