Choose Your Own Adventure gets a whodunit twist with Solve Your Own Mystery, a new middle-grade detective series by Gareth P. Jones, and illustrated by Louise Forshaw.
Much like a detective would, the books give readers a chance to follow different suspects and discover clues as they work their way through a mystery.
The series takes place in the town of Haventry, where things look a bit different than readers are used to. In Haventry, humans live alongside werewolves, ghosts and zombies. Readers enter the world as a private investigator’s assistant. More accurately as a Yeti’s assistant, and things only get more interesting from there.
Though a series, the books don’t necessarily need to be read in order. They’re full of mystery, monsters and lots of fun. Vibrant text make them an inviting read, and catchy illustrations help break up text. These are great for readers who enjoy a more interactive experience.
The first two books in the series, The Time Thief and A Monster Maker, are now out. Two more titles will release later this year. You can learn more about Books 1 and 2 below.
SOLVE YOUR OWN MYSTERY: THE MONSTER MAKER, by Gareth P. Jones and Louise Forshaw, Penguin Workshop, April 7, 2026, Paperback, $8.99 (ages 8-12)
Dr. Franklefink’s precious Monster Maker has gone missing and there are lots of suspects! Along with your yeti partner, it’s up to YOU to find the culprit. Should you trail Bramwell Stoker, the terrifying vampire, or Grundle and Grinola, the mischievous goblin twins? Should you follow up on a lead about the cunning witches? Or will investigating the doctor’s monstrous son Monty lead you to the thief? YOU decide! —Synopsis provided by Penguin Workshop
SOLVE YOUR OWN MYSTERY: THE TIME THIEF, by Gareth P. Jones and Louise Forshaw, Penguin Workshop, April 7, 2026, Paperback, $8.99 (ages 8-12)
The Museum of Magical Objects and Precious Stones is putting on a special time-traveling showcase, but when the main exhibit is stolen, it’s up to YOU to find the thief. The Time Sponge has the ability to stop and start time for whoever squeezes it, so who has the strongest motive? The minotaur chief of police who has a lot going on at work, or the shoplifting band of mermaids? Should you trail the museum’s petrifying gorgon curator? Or could your very own yeti partner be responsible? YOU decide! —Synopsis provided by Penguin Workshop
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