The Van Gogh Deception

Reviewed by: Noelle Gallant - Saco Middle School, Saco, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: November 13, 2017

Review

The Van Gogh Deception by Deron Hicks is a clever and thrilling mystery adventure. The protagonist is a twelve year old boy, Art, whose amnesia causes one of the major problems in the book. He knows more about works of art than most kids his own age, which is a shocking revelation when he is found alone at the National Musuem of Art in Washington, DC with no memory of how he got htere. The adventure begins as Art begins to remember parts of his past and realizes he needs to save his father, who we learn is about toe expose some art collectors as frauds.

Hicks cleverly uses QR codes throughout the text to reveal images of actual works that Art considers along the way as he works to solve the central mystery.

Readers will enjoy the fast pace and the excitement tied to each chapter, especially the satisfying ending. The book reads like a Dan Brown novel for upper elementary and lower middle-level audiences. A great choice for readers who like mystery and action.

Overall Book Score: very good