THE POCAHONTAS FEATHER

In this third installment of Hass’ middle-grade mystery series, sleuthing tweens track down a stolen Indigenous American artifact.

Siblings Sally and Andrew (and their pal, Henry) are delighted to hear from Jason, a friend they haven’t seen in months. Jason needs their help: He’s cataloging artifacts for a Jamestown museum, from which someone has stolen a headdress worn by celebrated Powhatan woman Pocahontas. Jason is certain the thief is Amy, his friend and head curator of the Native American exhibit. But it turns out there’s more to this case than simply confronting Amy—the kids learn the theft involves multiple parties, most notably an antique dealer who Sally, Andrew, and Henry must identify as stealthily as they’re able. It’s October, however, and they’re loaded with responsibilities, from schoolwork to their lawn-care and pet-sitting business. But the trio is determined to see this investigation to the end, even if it entails keeping a few tidbits of info from their parents. Hass’ compact, feel-good story showcases charmingly wholesome detectives; while they feel guilty when skirting the truth with their parents, they also excel at sneaking around an antique shop for clues. Readers get insights into the personalities of the three leads, particularly Sally’s—she constantly worries about the others, and even tries viewing the larceny from the suspected thief’s perspective (“No wonder she would want the headband back, Sally thought, just to hold it, maybe even to wear it sometimes”). Elsewhere, the author spotlights Virginia’s rich history and enlivens this story with touches of humor, as when the kids employ disguises (Halloween is just around the corner). The mystery is uncomplicated, but this latest case is great fun with the whip-smart, appealing heroes at the helm. Corson’s crisp black-and-white illustrations bring the youthful cast to life.

A charming crime-solving trio of youths energizes this breezy whodunit.