Module 9

Module 9
March 22-29

Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the Monster Movie
By David Adler

Adler, David. Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the Monster Movie. The Viking Press. 1984. ISBN: 0670200352

Synopsis:
Cam, her parents, and her friend, Eric, are all at the movie. Cam and Eric pass the time waiting in line by playing the memory game. Cam has a photographic memory and can look once at a scene and remember all that she sees. The reel for the film that they are going to watch gets stolen. Then Eric and Cam go to work, using her memory to solve the case.

My Version of the World:
This is a good mystery novel for elementary aged students. It is fun to read about the interactions between Cam and Eric. It also shows adults in a good light. Cam’s photographic memory and logical deduction are the keys to solving the crime. It is definitely a good read for younger students.

Book Reviews:
In this reissue, another generation of kids will get to meet the intrepid and amazing Cam Jansen. This time the story takes place at a movie theater where the second reel of the Shoe Escape disappears. The major suspect is the owner of a competitive movie theater, but Cam with her photographic memory is able to deduce who the real thief is. Kids who dream of being detectives will enjoy the exploits of Cam and her friend Eric. Her very understanding and cooperative parents may be the only part that doesn't ring quite true. Part of the "Puffin Chapters" series. 1999 from Children’s Literature.

"An uncluttered plot, a clever heroine, clear language, and a dash of humor make for a zestful mystery." From School Library Journal

In My World:
I would use this book as a read aloud within the library for children just beginning their chapter books. It would also be excellent to use logical reasoning with the children and try to get them to follow the same clues that Cam does throughout the story.