Murder at Penguin Ranch

“Gray combines an engaging mystery with authentic characters, fascinating Antarctic science, and plenty of suspense to deliver an adventure that will keep readers guessing until the very end.” – School Library Journal
“Solid, steady sleuthing leads readers to a satisfyingly sinister reveal, but the book shines most in its descriptions of the research missions and living conditions at Antarctic research stations. An engrossing, informative depiction of life at the bottom of the world.” – Kirkus Reviews
“An exciting, fact-filled, and accessible mystery-adventure for a STEM-curious, younger middle-grade audience.” – Booklist
“A killing derails three tweens’ visit to a penguin research facility in this fascinating mystery from Gray (The Amelia Six). Nova’s savvy photographer instincts prove indispensable to the trio’s sleuthing, and her yearning for her mother adds tenderness to the action-adventure plot. Immersive descriptions of the dangers of the inhospitable terrain and the threatening presence of a killer conjure a claustrophobic tale that’s both educational and entertaining.” – Publishers Weekly
Invited to visit her zoologist mother at a research station in Antarctica, budding nature photographer Nova Hoffman risks “subzero temps and a chance of frostbite” for a week-long expedition. Really, Nova hopes to convince her long-absent mom to return home, but participating in the National Science Foundation Junior Scientist Program with bestie Emilee and (“totally cute”) new friend Alex isn’t awful. Nova is frustrated that her mom’s penguin research seems to take priority over her, but, when mysterious circumstances threaten researchers and Mom’s the leading suspect, the kids use a love of mysteries and an analytical eye to clear her name. Gray smoothly incorporates details about cold-weather gear, ice travel, biology, Antarctic living conditions and history, and McMurdo Station slang into 25 well-paced chapters, and the improbable lack of supervision and slightly Scooby-Doo-ish resolution likely won’t faze the target audience. An exciting, fact-filled, and accessible mystery-adventure for a STEM-curious, younger middle-grade audience, who will likely also appreciate G. Neri’s dynamic travelogue, My Antarctica (2024). – Booklist * 10/7/26 *

Kristin L. Gray is the author of middle grade novels Vilonia Beebe Takes Charge, The Amelia Six, and Murder at Penguin Ranch. Kristin is also the author of two picture books: Koala Is Not a Bear, illustrated by Rachel McAlister, and Rover Throws a Party, illustrated by Scott Magoon. A fan of mysteries and science, she adores writing twisty, fact-filled books for curious kids. Gray lives in northwest Arkansas and hopes to return to Antarctica one day. For book research, of course.

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