The Mystery of the Monster Movie

Summary: The Cam Jansen story gives the reader familiarity by introducing Cam, her gift, and how she got her name. In this story, Cam and Eric are working toward solving a movie theater mystery. The movie reels for the movie they were seeing that afternoon suddenly went missing. It is Cam’s determination and critical thinking skills combined with her visual memory that helps her solve the Shoe Escape movie mystery- Angela Cane has stolen the movie. Mr. Bender, who had been a suspect, was presented with an apology and a triple movie feature. The movie is then continued in the theater since the mystery is solved.

Bib Info: Adler, D.A. (1984). The mystery of the monster movie. New York, NY: Viking Press.

Interest Level: 3-6

Impression: Cam Jansen mysteries are always entertaining to me. I have found that they are great for second graders, despite Titlewaves interest level for the book being grades 3-6. Although I listened to the audio version of this book, the books contain illustrations that are great for a small visual as students read through the chapter book. In this particular story, Cam asks an inquisitive question regarding what happens to Angela Cane who stole the reels. Her father mentions that she may have gotten arrested. This allows an opportunity for discussion with children regarding right from wrong and decision-making.

Reviews and Awards: Booklist, School Library Journal

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.
[Review of the book The mystery of the monster movie, by D. Adler]. (n.d.). Children’s Literature. Retrieved from: http://www.childrenslit.com/

I really like Cam Jansen books a lot, but the one thing that I don't like is that she often does things I would consider dangerous while she is solving a mystery. She doesn't do anything questionable in the Young Cam Jansen series, BTW. Well, they are still entertaining and gives me a lot to talk about with my son about what not to do.
Chak. (2009, Sept 8). The mystery of the monster movie by David A. Adler. [Web log comment]. Retrieved from http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/70457668

Use in library setting: This is a great opportunity to discuss awareness in the library and link it to library rules and the check out policy. The librarian can create a mock mystery to hone in on critical thinking skills.