Frame-Up on the Bowery Book

During Yuletide 1911, a brutal Midtown murder shocks the denizens of New York City. After a mutual friend is wrongly accused of being the killer, young sleuth Nate Fuller, along with his famous mentor Harry Houdini, is determined to solve the case. For starters, Houdini and Nate are certain their friend has been framed. But why? By whom? And how can they save him?

In their new adventure, old New York’s acclaimed detecting duo brave the rough-and-tumble streets of the Lower East Side, where colorful, conniving characters abound, and the only thing certain is danger every step of the way.

VOYA

When Ace, a friend from New York's Lower East Side, is targeted as the "Fifth Avenue Slasher," Nate Fuller and his mentor Harry Houdini shred police prejudice and a gang frame-up to find the murderer. The duo battle lies and the gang entanglements of Ace's family as they encounter hostile newspapers and O'Henry types. Nate's newly abandoned ten-year-old cousin helps and becomes the Slasher's target. Her danger escalates the pursuit and the solution. This third book in Lalicki's acclaimed Houdini and Nate Mystery series delivers action, appealing characters, and contemporary issues within an engaging historical context. The gruesome murder, resulting frame-up, and kidnapping weave a complicated and action-filled plot that emphasizes riches of the heart. Nate's ten-year-old cousin Allie, a hard luck Pollyanna, wins over their stern aunt and emboldens a gangster's moll. Women's rights issues include deadbeat dads, abusive "romance," and the first woman promoted to detective. The analytical Houdini is perfect for unraveling the crime's mysterious knots, and the central theme of personal choice communicates that no one needs to be a victim. Nate, the purposeful, thoughtful, and methodical apprentice, speaks his mind and uses hard work and sharp observation to solve his case. Short chapters deliver plot complication and history in involving bits. The series will have high appeal for middle grade readers drawn to Sherlock Holmes and the Baker Street Irregulars series and may spark interest in Lalicki's Spellbinder: The Life of Harry Houdini (Holiday House, 2000/VOYA December 2000). Reviewer: Lucy Schall