Blue Schwartz and Nefertiti's Necklace

BLUE SCHWARTZ AND NEFERTITI'S NECKLACE by Betty Jacobson Hechtman
Category: Mystery/Thriller
Age Recommendation: Grades 6+
Release Date: 9/15/06
Publisher: Brown Barn Books
Reviewed by: Sally Kruger, aka "Readingjunky"
Rating: 5 Stars

This fast, fun mystery is a bit reminiscent of Nancy Drew. Blue Schwartz and her friend Yvonne are out to solve a mystery.

Blue Schwartz is an experienced babysitter, but her current employers have accused her of stealing. First they are suspicious
when the wife's bracelet falls to the floor after apparently getting stuck in Blue's coat. All seems forgiven until after an important
social gathering, when they suspect Blue of taking a valuable artifact.

Not wanting to trouble her financially strapped parents, Blue seeks the help of her friend Yvonne. Together they carry out an
investigation that takes them through the streets of Chicago and into several of its world famous museums. Among the colorful
characters are an elderly neighbor lady, a demanding and annoying teacher, a brainy brother, and TV Chef Randy, Blue's
culinary idol.

An added feature at the end of the novel is a group of recipes Blue created for her babysitting clients and a school project on
soybeans. The recipes are kid-friendly and sound yummy.

Hopefully Betty Jacobson Hechtman will return with another adventure featuring Blue Schwartz. She is sure to be a hit,
especially with younger readers.