Ruby, Laura. The Shadow Cipher. (York series, #1) Walden Pond/HarperColllins, 2017. $17.99. 476p. ISBN 978-0-06-230693-7. Ages 10-14. P8Q9
In this alternative-history steam-punk novel set in New York City follows three young people, Jewish twins Tess and Theo Biedermann and friend Trinidadian-Cuban Jaime Cruz, in their race against time to save the historical apartment building from demolition by a dishonest real-estate developer. The building was created in the 19th century by inventors and architects who brought skyscrapers fitted with innovative fantasy technology and left the Old York Cipher, clues to the location of a fantastic treasure. The young people explore the city to locate the treasure and save their homes but instead encounter unexpected villains. In the midst of their adventures, each of the protagonists suffers from personal issues—the increasing dementia experienced by the twins’ beloved grandfather, the increasing absence of Jamie’s father, and the loss of their home.
Verdict: Printz Award-winner author (Bone Gap) has fashioned an amazingly detailed vision using such pop culture as Marvel superheroes and Legos with imaginary inventions such as the robot “caterpillars” that clean the Underway (aka subway). The length of the book with its humor and peril is inviting to youth who love reading. They will look forward eagerly to the sequel.
Summer 2017 review by Nel Ward.
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