Steve Reifman

Chase to the Finish Steve Reifman

Book Synopsis The last day of school at Apple Valley Elementary could mark the end of Mrs. Kennedy's 27-year teaching career, if she finds the rest of the money she needs to buy her dream house. When former student Brian Kelly surprises her with a $10,000 check, confidence is high-until the gift turns up missing hours before the down payment is due. Fifth-grader Chase Manning needs to work quickly to save the day for his favorite teacher. Suspense, drama, and excitement overflow from the pages of this single-day, real-time mystery thriller. About the Chase Manning Mystery Series The Chase Manning Mystery Series features single-day, real-time thrillers that occur on an elementary school campus. Written for readers 8-12 years of age by National Board Certified Teacher Steve Reifman, the series launched with the award-winning Chase Against Time, in which fifth grader Chase Manning must investigate the mysterious disappearance of the cello that the school plans to auction off to save its prestigious music program. The book and its sequels, Chase for Home and Chase Under Pressure, have enjoyed rave reviews from children, parents, and teachers. Young readers love the books' fast-paced, action-packed format while parents and teachers appreciate the kid-friendly tone and content. Chase is now back in the eagerly anticipated fourth installment, Chase to the Finish. Note for Elementary School Teachers and Parents Chase Against Time, Chase for Home, Chase Under Pressure, and Chase to the Finish are Level Q on the Fountas & Pinnell scale. All four books are ideally suited to be used as read alouds and mentor texts during Reading Workshop units on mystery and "edge-of-seat" fiction because they include numerous examples of end-of-chapter cliffhangers, red herrings, suspects, motives, and other important mystery elements. If you are interested in teaching children how to craft their own mysteries, check out Steve's e-book, The Ultimate Mystery Writing Guide for Kids.