The Detective's Assistant by Kate Hannigan

“Hannigan keeps a strong narrative hand on the several stories she has going on simultaneously…Nell-strong-willed yet scared, tough but needy-makes a solid heroine.” - Booklist (starred review) Nell is an irrepressible character: spirited, thoughtful, and intuitive.Recommend to readers who enjoy adventure, history, and stories featuring independent, strong-minded girls.

Publishers WeeklyĪ rousing fictional account of the remarkable career of a pioneering woman. Nell is a fearless, no-nonsense heroine, and her dry-witted narration drives this rollicking historical escapade. Hannigan makes skillful use of period details, bringing the novel's threads together in a nail-biting conclusion. * 'Hannigan keeps a strong narrative hand on the several stories she has going on simultaneously: the mysteries surrounding the deaths of Nell's father and uncle Nell's correspondence with her best friend, who traveled the Underground Railroad to safety in Canada and several Pinkerton adventures that involve chicanery, American history, and lots of excitement. * 'Accessible and captivating.With skilled writing that conveys the excitement of detective work, the appeal of history, and Nell's authentic, good-humored personal growth, this is one for the ages. Allan Pinkerton.”Ī Booklist Editors' ChoiceA Chicago Public Library Best BookA Nerdy Book Club Award WinnerA Bank Street College Best Children's BookAn SCBWI Golden Kite WinnerAn ALA Amelia Bloomer Project List for Feminist Books SelectionA Mighty Girl Top Books for Tweens and Teens Pick. Aunt Kate is as icy as they come as she strives to keep tradecraft to herself, and Lakin’s Scots brogue brings credibility to Mr.

Her feisty portrayal of Nell also has heartfelt moments of wisdom, cheer, and sadness, especially in her letters to her friend, Jemma.

“In a voice laden with gusto and grit…Lakin’s performance repertoire makes for good listening. With huge, nation-changing events simmering in the background, Nell uses skills new and old to uncover truths about her past and solve mysteries in the present.īased on the extraordinary true story of Kate Warne, this fast-paced adventure recounts feats of daring and danger … including saving the life of Abraham Lincoln. And Nell has a knack for the kind of close listening and bold action that made Pinkerton detectives famous in Civil War-era America. For Aunt Kate is the first ever female detective, employed by the legendary Pinkerton Detective Agency. Luckily, canny Nell makes herself indispensable to Aunt Kate … and not just by helping out with household chores. If her Aunt Kate rejects her, it’s the miserable Home for the Friendless. The incredible tale of America’s first ever female detective and her spirited nieceĮleven-year-old Nell Warne arrives on her aunt’s doorstep lugging a heavy sack of sorrows.

The Detective's Assistant by Kate Hannigan