The Tombstone Detective Agency

Book excerpt: A fun, quirky read in the form of a fantasy, adventure-come detective novel told from the perspectives of the two main characters. Set in the medieval cathedral town of Rochester, Kent and its surrounding areas, 'The Tombstone Detective Agency' tells the story of the county's mysteriously disappearing Ghosts (with a capital G!). Why? How? Who's responsible? As the Kent Board For Ghostly Behaviour is about as effective in protecting its citizens as a leaky umbrella is in keeping out the rain, it's up to Edwardian Ghost Girl Tessie and her detective obsessed Mortal (capital M!) friend Alex to find out by setting up their own detective agency and employing a bunch of eccentric spooks to help with their investigations. Will they succeed in solving the mystery or is there a traitor within their ranks? Aimed at children aged 9 - 12, the book is a fast-paced, imaginative read, packed with colourful characters, vivid descriptions of setting, and events, humour and twists and turns. Designed to encourage reading for pleasure, the novel also offers opportunities for parent/child and class discussion on themes such as friendship, the importance of making good choices, and celebrating differences. 'The Tombstone Detective Agency' is in line with the literacy goals for reading and writing at KS2 including 'show don't tell'. Note: Log on to the writer's website at www.kdgreaves.com to find further information about this book and other works by the author.