It is summer in Orange Grove City, California in 1951, and twelve-year-old Paolo O’Neil has a plan. Paolo’s little brother Georgie seems to have a lot of energy, and what better way to make use of that energy than channeling it into cash? Of course, Paolo decides that earning a little commission on the side from managing Georgie’s neighborhood jobs would only be fair...
The plan seems foolproof and perfect until Paolo and Georgie’s dog, Rufus, is suddenly dognapped! The only clue they have to go on is a mysterious ransom note. Paolo is fine with enlisting the help of his deaf cousin, Billy, but it is only because of necessity that he seeks out Theresa, the redheaded girl who has a disconcerting and obvious crush on him.
Suspect #1: Henry, the boy who lives in his aunt’s attic for the summer. Suspiciously friendly and talkative fellow with questionably truthful stories to tell. Suspect #2: Butter, class outcast turned frenemy due to the newspaper route that Paolo, Georgie, and Billy take on for the summer.
The lack of clues is trouble enough, but add in a come-rain-or-shine newspaper route, eccentric neighbors, and a gaggle of nosy brothers and sisters, and Paolo has more than his hands full. However, one thing is for sure. If anyone can get to the bottom of these mysteries, it is Paolo and his headstrong group of friends.
Ages: 7-14
