Shakespeare's Secret [Paperback]

Starting sixth grade at a new school is never easy, especially when your name is Hero. Named after a character in a Shakespeare play, Hero isn't at all interested in this literary connection. But when she's told by an eccentric neighbor that there might be a million dollar diamond hidden in her new house and that it could reveal something about Shakespeare's true identity, Hero is determined to live up to her name and uncover the mystery.

I like this book because it involves a girl trying to solve an unfinished case. Even my friends say it's a good read! Discovery Girls tween reviewer

(More) evidence-driven than Blue Balliett'sChasing Vermeer, this agreeable history-mystery may have even more appeal to budding sleuths. Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

Elise Broach's debut mystery is a gem. An engrossing mystery that touches several historical elements. School Library Journal

Middle school girls will love the suspense and identify with the characters' personal decisions, reflecting Shakespeare's universal themes such as loyalty, the public versus the private self, integrity, true love, and humor's dark side. Voices of Youth Advocates

Sophisticated readers, particularly fans of Blue Balliett'sChasing Vermeer, will appreciate the true emotions, the rich language, and the revelations of many-layered mysteries that tie the past to the present. Booklist

Terrific hero, terrific book. I loved it. Patricia Reilly Giff, Newbery Honor-winning author of Picture of Hollis Woods

The historical references, the highly developed characters, and the intriguing plot make this a page-turning satisfying read. Armchair Interviews

Elise Broachis theNew York Timesbestselling author of books for children and young adults, includingDesert CrossingandMasterpiece, as well as several picture books. She lived in England from the ages of lS‚