This book had so much going for it. But it just can’t overcome the ending and that stupid kangaroo.
High Point: Throughout the story, the heroes employ genuine scientific fundamentals.
Low Point: That stupid kangaroo.
Author: Van Powell
Publication Date: 1937
Genre: History
Project Gutenberg: Mystery of the 15 Sounds
LibriVox: Not available
Movie/TV Adaptation: None
Mystery of the 15 Sounds by Van Powell is such a mixed bag.
The book—published in 1937—targeted younger teenagers with an emphasis on science. Throughout the story, the heroes employ genuine scientific fundamentals—utilizing basics of chemistry, electrical engineering, biology, and physics—to help unravel the mystery.
It’s a good story, too, about a stolen jewel, spooky laboratories, adventures in Tibet and plenty more to keep the young reader engaged.
Until it falls apart at the end.
The solution to the mystery is simple and logical as it should be. But the explanation is convoluted, overly long, and silly. I mean, what about that stupid kangaroo with the boxing gloves?
Mystery of the 15 Sounds had so much going for it—a good story, solid science, and even the book’s cover art is almost priceless. But it just can’t overcome the ending and that stupid kangaroo.
