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The Explorer's Code
Three kids have everything they need to solve the decades-old mystery of Idlewood Manor, in this middle grade novel full of real ciphers, puzzles, riddles, and codes.
Idlewood Manor has been uninhabited for decades, until now...
Math whiz Charlie won admission in a puzzle contest � and he’s intrigued by the strange numbers he finds on Idlewood’s walls. His restless sister Anna had to be dragged to the house � but then she discovers its hidden floor. Emily’s parents brought her to the mansion on a secret mission � and she’s determined to prove herself to them.
All three kids soon unlock clues to Idlewood’s mysterious past and the famous female explorer who’s connected to it � and the secret treasure she left behind. But the adults around them are also hunting for the treasure. Charlie, Anna, and Emily will have to overcome their differences and work as a team to solve Idlewood’s puzzles before it’s too late, in Allison K. Hymas's The Explorer's Code.
Idlewood Manor has been uninhabited for decades, until now...
Math whiz Charlie won admission in a puzzle contest � and he’s intrigued by the strange numbers he finds on Idlewood’s walls. His restless sister Anna had to be dragged to the house � but then she discovers its hidden floor. Emily’s parents brought her to the mansion on a secret mission � and she’s determined to prove herself to them.
All three kids soon unlock clues to Idlewood’s mysterious past and the famous female explorer who’s connected to it � and the secret treasure she left behind. But the adults around them are also hunting for the treasure. Charlie, Anna, and Emily will have to overcome their differences and work as a team to solve Idlewood’s puzzles before it’s too late, in Allison K. Hymas's The Explorer's Code.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published September 29, 2020
26 people are currently reading
371 people want to read
About the author
Allison K. Hymas
4books72followersHello, readers! It's great to meet you!
I was born in Provo, Utah, but raised (along with my 4 siblings) in Virginia and Pennsylvania.
As a middle schooler, I was a law-abiding citizen (except for the occasional offense of reading under my desk when I should have been listening).
I now hold an MFA from Brigham Young University and currently live in Utah. Under Locker and Key is my first novel. I'm hard at work writing Jeremy Wilderson's further adventures.
I was born in Provo, Utah, but raised (along with my 4 siblings) in Virginia and Pennsylvania.
As a middle schooler, I was a law-abiding citizen (except for the occasional offense of reading under my desk when I should have been listening).
I now hold an MFA from Brigham Young University and currently live in Utah. Under Locker and Key is my first novel. I'm hard at work writing Jeremy Wilderson's further adventures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
June 2, 2021
Idlewood Manor lays steeped in mystery, largely unoccupied, and going to ruin. Its doors are opened for one weekend and eager families flock to visit it. Amongst these guests are brother and sister, Charlie and Anna. They used to be close but in recent years Charlie's quiet nature and bookishness has meant he has had little in common with his elder and more adventurous sister. The weekend does not initially prove to bring them any closer together as they both find interests at separate ends of the mysterious manor. Perhaps the other child staying there can help to bridge the gap between them? Emily takes after her historian parents and so has a little of both of their characters inside of her.
The reader was introduced to Anna's character first. I really liked her personality from the information provided about her inquisitive nature, that had her exploring locked attic spaces and restricted museum exhibits in the past.
Charlie's perspective came next and he seemed Anna's total opposite, with his love for intellect and books. His affinity for maths was baffling to me but I could understand his fears and reserve.
Emily was the third perspective and she immediately shared her interest in the past with the reader. Her parents' love of history meant she was knowledgeable about artefacts and old places and had previously visited many historical sites.
An explorer, an intellectual, and a historian: these three different skillsets were clearly going to have to work together to solve the mysteries surrounding the manor house, although it took them much of the book to actually do so.
I loved the codes, hidden clues, and adventures that the three children uncovered, over the weekend. I would have loved to see them interact a little more but their three separate missions eventually took them in the same direction. This was a fun exploration of a large and creepy setting with an ingenious adventure inside of it.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Allison K. Hymas, and the publisher, OrangeSky Audio, for this opportunity.
The reader was introduced to Anna's character first. I really liked her personality from the information provided about her inquisitive nature, that had her exploring locked attic spaces and restricted museum exhibits in the past.
Charlie's perspective came next and he seemed Anna's total opposite, with his love for intellect and books. His affinity for maths was baffling to me but I could understand his fears and reserve.
Emily was the third perspective and she immediately shared her interest in the past with the reader. Her parents' love of history meant she was knowledgeable about artefacts and old places and had previously visited many historical sites.
An explorer, an intellectual, and a historian: these three different skillsets were clearly going to have to work together to solve the mysteries surrounding the manor house, although it took them much of the book to actually do so.
I loved the codes, hidden clues, and adventures that the three children uncovered, over the weekend. I would have loved to see them interact a little more but their three separate missions eventually took them in the same direction. This was a fun exploration of a large and creepy setting with an ingenious adventure inside of it.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, Allison K. Hymas, and the publisher, OrangeSky Audio, for this opportunity.
June 16, 2021
The premise of this book sounded so promising. The mysterious old manor, the riddles and the puzzles and a bunch of kids trying to figure it all out.
It reminded me of some of my favorite middle grades when I was growing up. If nothing else, I wanted to give it a chance for the nostalgia's sake.
And for the most part, this book was exactly what I was hoping for. It reminded me a lot of Enid Blyton, only with riddles. Just a bunch of kids solving mysteries. Maybe a little naive, but still cute and fun.
Speaking of riddles and equations, I think it was a mistake to listen this book as an audiobook. Even though I really liked the narrator, because of all the letters and numbers, I think it would have been better if I just read it physically and had the codes in front of my eyes.
But I enjoyed it this way too. I loved how distinctive the characters were, each's strengths nicely complemented the others' weaknesses. I just wished they'd joined forces a bit earlier into the book, as I really liked their dynamic and wanted to see more of it.
Also, the mystery was better than what I usually get in middle grades. Maybe not as heart-quickening as thriller murder mysteries, but still exciting and fun to unravel.
Honestly, I thought this book was great. I don't think it's for everyone. But if you read the blurb, saw middle grade, old manor, mystery and secret codes and ciphers, and still wanted to read it, I think you would really enjoy it. The story is exactly what it sounds like, and it was pretty well written.
Thank you to the #NetGalley and to the author and publisher for providing me with an audiobook version of The Explorer's Code by Allison K. Hymas in exchange for an honest review.
❤️️❤️️❤️�
It reminded me of some of my favorite middle grades when I was growing up. If nothing else, I wanted to give it a chance for the nostalgia's sake.
And for the most part, this book was exactly what I was hoping for. It reminded me a lot of Enid Blyton, only with riddles. Just a bunch of kids solving mysteries. Maybe a little naive, but still cute and fun.
Speaking of riddles and equations, I think it was a mistake to listen this book as an audiobook. Even though I really liked the narrator, because of all the letters and numbers, I think it would have been better if I just read it physically and had the codes in front of my eyes.
But I enjoyed it this way too. I loved how distinctive the characters were, each's strengths nicely complemented the others' weaknesses. I just wished they'd joined forces a bit earlier into the book, as I really liked their dynamic and wanted to see more of it.
Also, the mystery was better than what I usually get in middle grades. Maybe not as heart-quickening as thriller murder mysteries, but still exciting and fun to unravel.
Honestly, I thought this book was great. I don't think it's for everyone. But if you read the blurb, saw middle grade, old manor, mystery and secret codes and ciphers, and still wanted to read it, I think you would really enjoy it. The story is exactly what it sounds like, and it was pretty well written.
Thank you to the #NetGalley and to the author and publisher for providing me with an audiobook version of The Explorer's Code by Allison K. Hymas in exchange for an honest review.
❤️️❤️️❤️�
June 8, 2021
What a fun mystery! I really enjoyed this book, the characters were well developed and the puzzle was interesting. This was a fast paced story and perfect for readers looking for a middle grade mystery.
There are three main characters, each with their own strengths. Anna is the explorer, always getting into places she shouldn't. She idolizes Ginny, a famous female explorer who traveled the world before disappearing. Charlie is Anna's brother and a young genius. He's great at codes and math and begins to put together hidden messages left in books and paintings. Finally we have Emily, the daughter of historians who knows the Idlewood house is being sold and is determined to save it.
The best part of this was seeing the strengths of each kid and watching them come together to figure out what really happened to Virginia and the treasure. There are also quirky side characters staying in the hotel and I enjoyed guessing which of them were up to no good.
I needed a light read and this was perfect. The narrator did a good job with the characters and I was absorbed right away.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. Thank you to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley for the copy.
There are three main characters, each with their own strengths. Anna is the explorer, always getting into places she shouldn't. She idolizes Ginny, a famous female explorer who traveled the world before disappearing. Charlie is Anna's brother and a young genius. He's great at codes and math and begins to put together hidden messages left in books and paintings. Finally we have Emily, the daughter of historians who knows the Idlewood house is being sold and is determined to save it.
The best part of this was seeing the strengths of each kid and watching them come together to figure out what really happened to Virginia and the treasure. There are also quirky side characters staying in the hotel and I enjoyed guessing which of them were up to no good.
I needed a light read and this was perfect. The narrator did a good job with the characters and I was absorbed right away.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. Thank you to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley for the copy.
October 19, 2021
This was such a fantastic mystery, full of puzzle solving & great characters! The whole backstory of this house turned hotel, the people who used to live there & that set the rules that everything has to stay the same, to the female explorer we learn about-FASCINATING! SO atmospheric as well. This huge house/hotel with all of its history, secrets, & puzzles was so intriguing & just gave me all the cozy, mysterious vibes. Add in all the eccentric hotel guests staying the weekend-incredible! These 3 kids are all amazing, each in their own right. They each bring something crucial to the table to solving this mystery. POV go back & forth between the 3, so you get to see the weekends from each of their POVs & how different each experience is, & what each is doing to solve this mystery of this house. The codes & puzzles were so great! I loved that. I hate math, lol but I love codes & puzzles apparently. Anna is my favorite, because I would have been doing what she did. Exploring! Seeing things people hadn’t seen in many years�.Such an amazing feeling that would be. I love history. The way the whole story/mystery came together & what all we find out was superb. There were twists, & I never guessed the ending. Such a heartwarming, book hug ending. What Anna did with what she found at the very end, & why-melted my heart. Goosebumps. Highly recommend this. Full of family, friendship, mystery, puzzles, codes, history, amazing characters, & great writing. Beautiful cover by Kat Lyons too!💜
September 16, 2020
Three kids have a weekend to solve a nearly century old mystery.
September 22, 2024
Read this one for my daughter’s middle grade book club. This is definitely an advanced middle grade book but it’s as well written and compelling as some of the best adult mysteries I’ve read. The clues are difficult but understandable, the story arch and why for the whodunnit makes sense. I really enjoyed reading it and had a sense of excitement and anticipation as I was trying to figure out the answers. I’d recommend it for older elementary/middle school, but it was a great read.
June 15, 2021
I received an audiobook copy from NetGalley in exchange for a review!
Cover: The cover was the first thing to pull me into the book so it's safe to say I quite like it!
Narration/writing style: I enjoyed the narration very much and found it super enticing and somewhat exiting! The writing was really enjoyable and well done.
Characters: From the very first parts of the book, I was invested in the characters and waiting to discover more of them, they were really interesting characters and easily loveable ones as well.
Plot: The plot was super interesting, and so well written I was a little shocked, I didn't expect a children's/middle grade book to be written this well, it somewhat intrigued me about children's books.
Events/pace: The events were perfectly paced, drowning me in them almost completely, they were so exciting, and kept me on the edge of the seat.
Favorite part: My absolute favorite part was definitely
Favorite Character: My favorite character was Anna, she was so strong willed and her spirit was so strong and loving and brave and alive!
Things I didn't like: I hate being that person, but nothing! Lol xD
General Rating: 5 beautiful stars!
Cover: The cover was the first thing to pull me into the book so it's safe to say I quite like it!
Narration/writing style: I enjoyed the narration very much and found it super enticing and somewhat exiting! The writing was really enjoyable and well done.
Characters: From the very first parts of the book, I was invested in the characters and waiting to discover more of them, they were really interesting characters and easily loveable ones as well.
Plot: The plot was super interesting, and so well written I was a little shocked, I didn't expect a children's/middle grade book to be written this well, it somewhat intrigued me about children's books.
Events/pace: The events were perfectly paced, drowning me in them almost completely, they were so exciting, and kept me on the edge of the seat.
Favorite part: My absolute favorite part was definitely
Favorite Character: My favorite character was Anna, she was so strong willed and her spirit was so strong and loving and brave and alive!
Things I didn't like: I hate being that person, but nothing! Lol xD
General Rating: 5 beautiful stars!
June 26, 2021
This was a really fun mystery. Kids and puzzles in an old manor? You got to expect shenanigans. The audiobook was also nicely narrated which added to my enjoyment.
I received an ecopy of this book through Netgalley; however, my opinions are my own.
I received an ecopy of this book through Netgalley; however, my opinions are my own.
August 17, 2021
3 1/2 stars fun book
March 27, 2025
This book is so adventurous and is a good book to get away from reality!
August 17, 2021
I listened to the audiobook of this with my daughter on a road trip and we both enjoyed it a lot. It's a very low stakes mystery that was still intriguing enough to keep us both entertained. My daughter was delighted with the story and even though I was able to figure out everything well in advance (except the actual codes since we were listening to the audiobook in the car and I had no way to write them out) I think that's perfectly normal for a middle grade story to an adult reader, and I still enjoyed listening to the whole thing unfold! A well written story that's well narrated, I recommend this for young readers and parents who are reading along.
June 15, 2021
It's intresting but predictable!!
May 15, 2020
The Explorer’s Code has a very interesting synopsis and promise, however, I had a very hard time getting past the main character’s flaws. Anna is the adventurous older sister that is self absorbed and selfish. She breaks the rules just because she wants an adventure even though she knows it's wrong and then gets upset when she gets in trouble. Charlie the younger brother, math wizard, and lover of codes/chipers is the only redeeming character. I enjoyed his journey through the story and his point of view. Emily is the third character she starts the story coming off as rude and pretentious but when she starts to work with Anna and Charlie she is more likable. The story itself is very interesting with an old manor hiding a mystery that the kids solve with the the knowledge gained from each of their initial individual searches. It is a great adventure with secret rooms so if you don’t get hung up on the characters like I did then I think you will really enjoy this story.
I was provided with an electronic ARC through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I was provided with an electronic ARC through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 18, 2021
Anna, her brother, Charlie, and Emily have all come to Idlewood Manor for the weekend to see its themed rooms and amazing landscapes. Anna is feeling unloved as Charlie and their parents seem to believe that she always finds trouble, while Charlie, the quiet one in the family, loves numbers. It was his math skills that won a contest that allowed them to come to Idlewood. Emily has come with her parents to prove that Idlewood needs to be saved as an historic landmark. Several other guests have also been invited to spend the weekend at Idlewood, each with their own motives for being there. Anna, Charlie, and Emily each find their own clues to the secrets of Idlewood, but it will take all three of them to reveal what the secrets really mean.
The Explorer's Code is a wonderful book about family relationships interwoven with a dandy mystery involving codes and clues. Each of the three main characters individually find their own set of clues, and that is entertaining enough as the story moves forward, but when they finally get together, it is difficult to read quickly enough to get to the end and find out what is really going on. Each of the three characters is well developed, especially Anna, who we learn is filled with insecurities about herself and her place in her family. Anyone who likes mysteries, especially those with codes, hidden rooms, and secrets will love this middle grade novel. Overall, this is an exceptional story that is enjoyable from beginning to end.
The Explorer's Code is a wonderful book about family relationships interwoven with a dandy mystery involving codes and clues. Each of the three main characters individually find their own set of clues, and that is entertaining enough as the story moves forward, but when they finally get together, it is difficult to read quickly enough to get to the end and find out what is really going on. Each of the three characters is well developed, especially Anna, who we learn is filled with insecurities about herself and her place in her family. Anyone who likes mysteries, especially those with codes, hidden rooms, and secrets will love this middle grade novel. Overall, this is an exceptional story that is enjoyable from beginning to end.
January 27, 2021
The Explorer's Code is a middle grade novel about three children visiting a mysterious, historic home and individually searching for answers to the perplexing codes and puzzling structure of the house. Inevitably, their individual sleuthing brings the three together in an attempt to save the house from certain destruction.
Sounds great, right?
Not so much.
So, where do I start? To begin, the chapters are too long for a kid's book, but that is a superficial complaint.
I found the plot to be confusing which led to my mind wandering frequently while I was reading. It was hard to get "inside" this book. All the connections, and theories, and accusations, and mysterious codes, and secret rooms were all so loosely connected that they were barely feasible. Of course, it could just be that I didn't understand any of it....
And then there were the characters. The main characters were underdeveloped and their interactions with one another didn't ring true. Many of the actions the main characters and secondary characters (Mrs. Haskell!) took seemed far-fetched.
And, boy did the ending drag on... and on.
The one redeeming quality in the book that I appreciated was that each of the kids knew a different aspect of the mystery and the reader understood that if they all just worked together, they could solve it, which, of course, is what happens in the end.
Sounds great, right?
Not so much.
So, where do I start? To begin, the chapters are too long for a kid's book, but that is a superficial complaint.
I found the plot to be confusing which led to my mind wandering frequently while I was reading. It was hard to get "inside" this book. All the connections, and theories, and accusations, and mysterious codes, and secret rooms were all so loosely connected that they were barely feasible. Of course, it could just be that I didn't understand any of it....
And then there were the characters. The main characters were underdeveloped and their interactions with one another didn't ring true. Many of the actions the main characters and secondary characters (Mrs. Haskell!) took seemed far-fetched.
And, boy did the ending drag on... and on.
The one redeeming quality in the book that I appreciated was that each of the kids knew a different aspect of the mystery and the reader understood that if they all just worked together, they could solve it, which, of course, is what happens in the end.
July 29, 2020
I received an electronic ARC from Macmillan Children's Publishing Group through NetGalley.
Mystery, adventure, secret codes are all part of a weekend away at an historic mansion. Three kids - Anna, Charlie, Emily - each explore on their own to solve their own mysteries. Eventually, they join together and solve all of their mysteries. This in turn saves the home and solves a mystery about an explorer who just disappeared. Secret codes are woven throughout the book but I was disappointed that readers were not given more opportunities to solve them too.
I was disappointed as the characters were stereotypes - free spirited adventurer, math nerd, history buff. The secondary characters were simply there as backdrop and weren't given much personality. The story did provide some surprises but was fairly predictable.
Mystery, adventure, secret codes are all part of a weekend away at an historic mansion. Three kids - Anna, Charlie, Emily - each explore on their own to solve their own mysteries. Eventually, they join together and solve all of their mysteries. This in turn saves the home and solves a mystery about an explorer who just disappeared. Secret codes are woven throughout the book but I was disappointed that readers were not given more opportunities to solve them too.
I was disappointed as the characters were stereotypes - free spirited adventurer, math nerd, history buff. The secondary characters were simply there as backdrop and weren't given much personality. The story did provide some surprises but was fairly predictable.
January 25, 2021
Anna and her brother Charlie are headed to Idlewood Manor with their parents. Charlie won a prize and they get a weekend trip. Idlewood hasn't been open in years to the public, so it is a big deal that they get to go. They along with 9 other groups are intrigued by the house's history. Emily is also there with her parents and they are there to save Idlewood from getting sold or torn down. Emily is there to prove to her parents that she can find evidence to save Idlewood. Anna goes places she shouldn't, but in the process she discovers a hidden 3rd floor and tower room full of secrets. Charlie is a math whiz and he starts discovering codes and puzzles all over the house.
Good little book with lots of puzzles and codes. I kinda like The Inheritance Games better. I felt like the kids didn't work together for a 3/4 of the book. Overall, I liked it, just a little slow.
Good little book with lots of puzzles and codes. I kinda like The Inheritance Games better. I felt like the kids didn't work together for a 3/4 of the book. Overall, I liked it, just a little slow.
September 27, 2020
The Explorer's Code is a solid middle-grade mystery with plenty of adventure and fun, but no mature situations or language. For students wanting a good story that unfolds at modest pace, this one is a great recommendation. The main character, Anna, feels like she's under the scrutiny of everyone around her due to her adventurous spirit and love of exploring, which often takes her to places that adults want to decree off-limits, partially for her own safety. She feels like she's in competition with her timid, yet very intelligent, younger brother, Charlie, who has won a competition which affords the family a chance to stay in a historical house which has been closed to the public for many years. When she discovers the house has ties to her favorite explorer, whose mysterious disappearance has always intrigued her, she can't wait to find out more about the house and perhaps find clues to what happened. Her brother, meanwhile, has been finding clues of his own, involving secret codes which might help him find long forgotten treasure. Other characters, including, Emily, another girl who is close to their age, and whose family is trying to keep the house from being sold, flesh out the story and build interest. There were some holes in the plot which made it a little difficult to follow at times, but an ending which hints at more adventures to come will make readers happy. Great story for adventurous readers in the grade 4-7 group. I appreciate NetGalley for giving me access to an ebook to read and review.
June 1, 2021
What a SUPER FUN little book! I loved reading Nancy Drew and Cherry Ames books as a child and this adorable story would have definitely been a good precursor to those series. I love that the young girls are smart and strong - budding heroines! I love that the “nerdy� boy is a hero. I love the example set about how each individual should be valued for his/her own strengths, but “teamwork makes the dream work.�
Cooperation, intelligence, family, brainpower ... these guiding concepts are wonderful topics for children and they are certainly the focus here.
Honestly, I kept expecting a twist where the reader finds out that this whole vacation was actually a plan by the owners to bring in a group of people to solve a mystery, or complete a quest, or ... something. Something that would pull the focus back to the adults and make them the stars, but I was thrilled to be wrong! This novel thoroughly shines the light in the young people and keeps it there, adults are merely bumbling (but not caricature) background players.
This is certainly geared to a primary school-aged audience, but I could see some of my younger middle schools kids loving it.
I also really appreciate the codes given (I’m guessing that in the print version , the actual codes are printed) and could see this leading to a fun follow-up assignment. I would definitely use this as part of my book club/literature circles, because it’s a lower level in the reading spectrum but not on a sophistication of thought level.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ALC in exchange for my honest opinions.
Cooperation, intelligence, family, brainpower ... these guiding concepts are wonderful topics for children and they are certainly the focus here.
Honestly, I kept expecting a twist where the reader finds out that this whole vacation was actually a plan by the owners to bring in a group of people to solve a mystery, or complete a quest, or ... something. Something that would pull the focus back to the adults and make them the stars, but I was thrilled to be wrong! This novel thoroughly shines the light in the young people and keeps it there, adults are merely bumbling (but not caricature) background players.
This is certainly geared to a primary school-aged audience, but I could see some of my younger middle schools kids loving it.
I also really appreciate the codes given (I’m guessing that in the print version , the actual codes are printed) and could see this leading to a fun follow-up assignment. I would definitely use this as part of my book club/literature circles, because it’s a lower level in the reading spectrum but not on a sophistication of thought level.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ALC in exchange for my honest opinions.
May 5, 2020
Wow! This book captured and kept my attention as I embarked on an amazing adventure with Anna, Charlie, and Emily. The three children end up with their families at Idlewood Manor and what's not to like? They get an incredible house to explore complete with magically themed rooms, mysterious happenings, secret codes, treasure, and more! The plot thickens.... Where is Anna? Why is she always missing and why is she taking so many showers? What is Charlie doing roaming around the house looking for codes? What is Emily hiding behind her always present math book? Will Mr. Llewellyn (the owner) sell Idlewood and will all its secrets be lost forever?
At numerous points throughout this book, I could not stop reading, and, like the kids felt like I just HAD to know the next thing! I was literally on the edge of my (airplane!) seat! It was nice when the three kids came together as a team and exchanged information to possibly save the day. The end was satisfying. I had become so engaged in the story that after I finished the book. I looked up some of the explorers to find out more about them
It is very fitting that this author wrote a book about explorers. Allison K. Hymas was born on the anniversary of the day that Amelia Earhart, entered the ranks of fame by becoming the first female to fly solo across the Atlantic! I look forward to reading more books by this author!
At numerous points throughout this book, I could not stop reading, and, like the kids felt like I just HAD to know the next thing! I was literally on the edge of my (airplane!) seat! It was nice when the three kids came together as a team and exchanged information to possibly save the day. The end was satisfying. I had become so engaged in the story that after I finished the book. I looked up some of the explorers to find out more about them
It is very fitting that this author wrote a book about explorers. Allison K. Hymas was born on the anniversary of the day that Amelia Earhart, entered the ranks of fame by becoming the first female to fly solo across the Atlantic! I look forward to reading more books by this author!
May 6, 2020
Upon reading that this book had puzzles and ciphers in it I knew I had to get my hands on it. I love solving puzzles along side characters. The Explorer's Code features Idlewood Manor a building that holds more secrets than the eye can see and some that are written in plain sight, if you know what you are looking for! 10 rooms, 10 families, 3 days, 1 mansion with a mysterious past.
Charlie has always been a math wiz. He is constantly seeing codes and patterns embedded in every day life. Meanwhile, his sister Anna could care less about puzzles and codes. She would rather spend her time exploring, just like her idol, Virginia Maines- even if it does get her into a great deal of trouble. How can two people be so different, yet related?
Emily has been brought to visit the mansion thanks to her parent's top secret mission to try and save the Idlewood Manor. Emily is determined to show her parents that she is capable of making them proud- thus it is why she has also secretly taken on their mission as well.
When each child fines an important (and different) piece to the overall puzzle, will they be willing to make themselves vulnerable to share what they have found with each other? Who else knows about the secrets the mansion holds? And will one weekend be enough to get the answers they are looking for?
Charlie has always been a math wiz. He is constantly seeing codes and patterns embedded in every day life. Meanwhile, his sister Anna could care less about puzzles and codes. She would rather spend her time exploring, just like her idol, Virginia Maines- even if it does get her into a great deal of trouble. How can two people be so different, yet related?
Emily has been brought to visit the mansion thanks to her parent's top secret mission to try and save the Idlewood Manor. Emily is determined to show her parents that she is capable of making them proud- thus it is why she has also secretly taken on their mission as well.
When each child fines an important (and different) piece to the overall puzzle, will they be willing to make themselves vulnerable to share what they have found with each other? Who else knows about the secrets the mansion holds? And will one weekend be enough to get the answers they are looking for?
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June 7, 2021The Explorer's Code follows the young siblings Charlie and Anna and their new friend Emily as they visit the Idlewood Manor for what might be their first and last time. Soon, they discover that all may not be as it seems in the now hotel. Can the team follow the clues left behind by the original owners of Idlewood and save the manor?
The main characters were relatable and their sleuthing was so fun! I especially enjoyed how each characters' discoveries eventually joined together. It was incredibly frustrating to hear Charlie constantly bash Anna and act as if everything she did was wrong. Particularly since their parents felt Charlie, the younger sibling, could do no wrong, Anna will be particularly relatable to and loved by older siblings and those who love adventure.
Unfortunately, I really struggled to distinguish between Emily and Anna for the entirety of the story. Somehow I didn't even realize they were two different people for the first 20%. This was likely because I was listening to the audiobook, not a fault of the writing.
However, one sentence really should have been rephrased. Anna's red curls are mentioned over and over throughout the story which, fine. But the statement "even the curls in her ponytail looked tense" just... doesn't happen? I have curly hair and my curls, though it can be argued that they have a mind of their own, do not move to show emotion.
The narrator, Laci Morgan, was enjoyable, though the extremely high voice for the little girls, especially Anna, was slightly annoying. It was difficult to follow and visualize the codes without reading them, so keep that in mind if you're hoping to solve the clues along with Charlie.
This was a great book, though it seemed to drag on after a while. I'd recommend this book to young readers, especially those who love exploration and solving mysteries. Even though I'm an older teenager now, the adventure was very interesting and exciting!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the audiobook ARC!
The main characters were relatable and their sleuthing was so fun! I especially enjoyed how each characters' discoveries eventually joined together. It was incredibly frustrating to hear Charlie constantly bash Anna and act as if everything she did was wrong. Particularly since their parents felt Charlie, the younger sibling, could do no wrong, Anna will be particularly relatable to and loved by older siblings and those who love adventure.
Unfortunately, I really struggled to distinguish between Emily and Anna for the entirety of the story. Somehow I didn't even realize they were two different people for the first 20%. This was likely because I was listening to the audiobook, not a fault of the writing.
However, one sentence really should have been rephrased. Anna's red curls are mentioned over and over throughout the story which, fine. But the statement "even the curls in her ponytail looked tense" just... doesn't happen? I have curly hair and my curls, though it can be argued that they have a mind of their own, do not move to show emotion.
The narrator, Laci Morgan, was enjoyable, though the extremely high voice for the little girls, especially Anna, was slightly annoying. It was difficult to follow and visualize the codes without reading them, so keep that in mind if you're hoping to solve the clues along with Charlie.
This was a great book, though it seemed to drag on after a while. I'd recommend this book to young readers, especially those who love exploration and solving mysteries. Even though I'm an older teenager now, the adventure was very interesting and exciting!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the audiobook ARC!
November 21, 2021
Allison K. Hymas weaves an inviting tale of three kids each spending a weekend at Idlewood Manor, a mysterious estate turned hotel. With alternating POVs, Anna, Emily, and Charlie are each discovering the hidden secrets of Idlewood. Of course each of the kids has their own strengths enabling them to solve portions of the mystery, but when fate throws them all together they are able to combine their talents and discoveries into an interesting solution.
Hymas's storytelling had me wishing I was spending the weekend at Idlewood, especially in the spot that Anna seems to spend most of her time. I enjoyed each of the characters in different ways, but especially liked the way that Charlie and Anna (brother and sister) had some very real sibling tensions to overcome.
I borrowed this book from my public library, however, I will be purchasing it for my classroom library. I have several students asking to read it.
Hymas's storytelling had me wishing I was spending the weekend at Idlewood, especially in the spot that Anna seems to spend most of her time. I enjoyed each of the characters in different ways, but especially liked the way that Charlie and Anna (brother and sister) had some very real sibling tensions to overcome.
I borrowed this book from my public library, however, I will be purchasing it for my classroom library. I have several students asking to read it.
January 30, 2024
Anna is an explorer. Her brother Charlie is a math genius but kind of a wimp nowadays. He won a contest and the family gets to spend the weekend at Idelwood manor, an old house that has lots of potential for adventure...and mysteries. As Anna begins to explore, she finds secret doors and exciting journals. Charlie finds number codes and clues hidden in paintings. But there's a lot more going on here. Emily and here parents are also looking for secrets here—they know something about this house. Other guests have their own agendas.
I liked the detail of this book. The 3 kids are the main characters and they make discoveries, solve clues, and so forth. But the other guests at the manor actually do stuff too. There are a lot of little puzzles that the reader can try to solve if they want. Or you can just read along. I thought it was rather clever. Cute. Good for its middle-grade audience. As an adult reader I found it was still decent fun.
I liked the detail of this book. The 3 kids are the main characters and they make discoveries, solve clues, and so forth. But the other guests at the manor actually do stuff too. There are a lot of little puzzles that the reader can try to solve if they want. Or you can just read along. I thought it was rather clever. Cute. Good for its middle-grade audience. As an adult reader I found it was still decent fun.
June 13, 2021
As much as I love audiobooks, this one contained cyphers and code-breaking. I think that reading it visually would be more fun to participate in figuring out the puzzles. That being said, the audiobook was well done and Laci Morgan did a great job narrating.
Idlewood Manor invites several guests. I don't want to divulge any spoilers and the author does a great job revealing clues slowly throughout the book. I really love how the author describes the details of the rooms and the Manor. I also love how there are ties to a female explorer who disappeared decades ago. This children's audiobook held my attention.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher OrangeSky Audio and the author Allison K. Hymas for the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review. Publication date is right around the corner on 15 June 2021!
Idlewood Manor invites several guests. I don't want to divulge any spoilers and the author does a great job revealing clues slowly throughout the book. I really love how the author describes the details of the rooms and the Manor. I also love how there are ties to a female explorer who disappeared decades ago. This children's audiobook held my attention.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher OrangeSky Audio and the author Allison K. Hymas for the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review. Publication date is right around the corner on 15 June 2021!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2021
I really enjoyed this puzzle solving book! It is definitely a fun read. Inglewood Manor is a place that is said to hold treasures and due to it being left just as the original owner left it, many would love to explore the mansion for it's secret mysteries. The story follows Charlie, his sister Anna and Emily a friend they meet as they try to solve the mysterious history behind the house. Charlie, the math wiz, won a family package at the Manor and Emily's parents are there to prove the Manor is a Historical Monument and if the new owner is going to sell to get out of the owner's wishes to leave the house as is. No spoilers but I highly recommend it. Thanks to #netgalley for the advanced reader copy. I loved it!
July 24, 2024
280 pgs. This is mostly a mystery book with many people visiting an estate serving as a hotel but unfortunately will soon be sold. Three kids are working to find clues to treasures connected with a famous world explorer shrouded in controversy. I found the concept of money laundering a bit high level for an elementary book and later discovered it is listed as a middle-grade book. Otherwise, it kept my attention right up to the end. I liked the characters but felt maybe they could have been more developed, especially Emily. The ending was satisfying and I did enjoy reading it. I think it might be more suitable for grades 6-7 due to the content, but for the reading level, it would be ok for 5th graders. Highly recommended.
May 10, 2021
The Explorer's Code is a fun and brilliant read. There is...
...a depth to the world author Allison K. Hymas has crafted for her characters, and the readers to explore! Our trio of protagonists, each working to unravel the mysteries of the Inglewood manor,(Hotel)find mystery, secret codes, and hidden rooms in this very down to earth adventure.
Every character felt real.
Every bit of the world they lived in, the hotel and the enigmatic lives of the first owners.
The kernels we learn about famed explorer Virginia Maines give an additional level of authenticity.
I put the book down wondering...
...just what became of Virginia Maines?
...a depth to the world author Allison K. Hymas has crafted for her characters, and the readers to explore! Our trio of protagonists, each working to unravel the mysteries of the Inglewood manor,(Hotel)find mystery, secret codes, and hidden rooms in this very down to earth adventure.
Every character felt real.
Every bit of the world they lived in, the hotel and the enigmatic lives of the first owners.
The kernels we learn about famed explorer Virginia Maines give an additional level of authenticity.
I put the book down wondering...
...just what became of Virginia Maines?
July 12, 2021
Audiobook provided by NetGalley and OrangeSky Audio in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a fun Middle Grade mystery! And while there are parts that don't lend well to the audiobook format (mainly when the codes are being listed/noted it gets tedious to listen to a string of letters and numbers being read out loud) overall I think this a great mix of daring adventure and using your brain to solve clues. Maybe it'll even encourage kids to learn how to write and read coded messages!
Laci Morgan does a good job with the audiobook and Hymas made me jealous that as a reader, I couldn't explore Idlewood Manor myself!
This was such a fun Middle Grade mystery! And while there are parts that don't lend well to the audiobook format (mainly when the codes are being listed/noted it gets tedious to listen to a string of letters and numbers being read out loud) overall I think this a great mix of daring adventure and using your brain to solve clues. Maybe it'll even encourage kids to learn how to write and read coded messages!
Laci Morgan does a good job with the audiobook and Hymas made me jealous that as a reader, I couldn't explore Idlewood Manor myself!
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