Book Description

When Trixie and Honey explore an abandoned gatehouse, they discover more than dust and spiderwebs. Stuck in the dirt floor is a huge diamond! Could a ring of jewel thieves be hiding out in Sleepyside? ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A rollicking adventure!
Trixie Belden and Honey Wheeler find a diamond in the abandoned gatehouse at the edge of the Wheelers' property, but someone is trying to get it back. Meanwhile, Trixie's brothers Brian and Mart have returned from camp, meeting Honey and her brother Jim for the first time, so the secret Bob-Whites of the Glen club is ripe for formation.

As much trouble as the girls get into, the adults still come off as helpful and intelligent, unlike many other YA mystery series (or even the Harry Potter books).

Usually I prefer the Deluxe edition from the 1960s with covers illustrated by Paul Frame, but for this one, check out the edition illustrated by Mary Stevens. One picture shows Trixie and Honey doing some pruning -- with Trixie looking remarkably like Beavis of MTV fame -- and a charming Ashley Judd look-alike picture of Trixie greeting Mart. This book also features the memorable line by Regan, the Wheeler's beloved young groom, "Reach for the ceiling, Laughing-Boy."

My Favorite in a Favorite Series
When Trixie and Honey go to explore the abandoned gatehouse on Honey's property, they find a diamond pressed into the dirt floor. How did it get there? Is there a gang of thieves in the area? Or did someone bury treasure there long ago? The girls are determined to find out. And with the help of Jim and Trixie's brothers Mart and Brian, they just might.

This is easily my favorite book in the series, and I love the entire series. While the mystery plot itself is a little easy to figure out, finding out how Trixie is going to prove it keeps you turning pages. But for me, the best part of this book was character and setting. Trixie, her family and friends, and their surroundings seem so real when reading this book. And the fun and friendship they share has always made me want to be part of the group.

Julie Campbell must be given credit for the wonderful way she handles the introduction. A lot happened in the first two books, and new readers will need some of that information to understand character relationships. She does it in an entertaining way that makes it seem part of the story. She also finally introduces Brian and Mart (they've only been mentioned previously) and the new friends form the "Bob Whites of the Glen" in this book. Frankly, I consider this the last foundational book, even though we still have two more main characters to meet.

I've gone back to this book and reread it so many times, I practically have parts memorized. I'm so thrilled to see Random House reprinting the series so that a whole new generation can share the adventures of Trixie and her friends.

a trixie belden must
This book must be one of my favorites in the serice. Its about a girl named trixie belden who`s life ambition is to be a detective. Her best friend shares that will her. When Trixie`s yongest brother trips and falls one something sharpe trixie and honey look for what might Bobby might of fallen on trixie finds something that look like a dimond only to find out that it is a real one!! Well knowing trixie she has to find out where the dimond came from. This book is a great book whith humore and much more that you can imagan a teenage book might have. Julie Campbell created a great book and serice. THIS IS A MUST READ. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Good - but a change in style.
For those of you who loved the first 34 Trixie Belden books, you may be somewhat disappointed by the writing style of this one. Attempts by the author to modernize and update elements of the story seem blatant and out-of-place in these here-to-fore timeless classics. Although the BWGs are once again working for a good cause - an environmental one at that - the spirit of the book does not ring as true as in previous volumes. Even Trixie's language and thoughts seem out of character. I'm guessing they brought in a different ghostwriter than that was utilized in the Kathryn Kenny books prior to volume 35 (I've yet to read 35, 36, 38, and 39; they're on their way to me right now). Although I love Trixie Belden, I was somewhat disappointed in this book - especially as I had paid so so much for it in an auction in order to complete my collection. Of note, however, those who enjoy the modernized "fanfics" on the various Trixie web-sites may indeed like this volume. I, myself, prefer the older style - without the illustrations.

Reddy takes center stage
The perfect book for kids interested in enviromental issues and wondering how you could help. Trixie and the rest of the Bob-Whites take charge of the situation in an attempt to save the starving game birds in their community. Fans of the series will enjoy the role that Bobby and Reddy play in this book. Of course, Trixie gets herself into another mystery and into jepordy. This book has all of the adventure worthy of a Trixie Belden Mystery, but clearly is written to invoke young minds into thinking about bigger issues and world problems. In the end, the mystery is solved, yet many life questions that people continually face are left for another day. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

substandard and rather embarrassing
I could hardly wait for this muddled tale to end. Julie Campbell Tatham, writing as "Julie Campbell," wrote the first six books of the series, and this, the fifth, stumbles. The scenes where Trixie tries to convince her family and friends that she's "in love" to achieve a noble secret agenda, were embarrassing and unnecessary -- she could have achieved the same end by confiding in her parents straightforwardly. And the "mystery" turns out to be a disappointing non-mystery. I recommend this particular Trixie Belden book mainly to continuity fans who want to know every detail of the development of the Bob-Whites of the Glen club; otherwise, skip to the Mystery in Arizona for a believable and entertaining (rather than ridiculous) story.

Even so, I'm delighted that this series is back in print!! This edition features Mary Stevens' darling illustrations from the 1950s. (There are Trixie Belden websites on the Internet that talk about the various editions and illustrators.) The new editions tend to go out of print fairly quickly, so don't assume they'll always be around!

Not Up to Par
When a fierce storm blows through Sleepyside, it blows a tree into the just completed clubhouse. Now the Bob Whites must figure out some way to get the money to fix it before winter comes and ruins everything inside. When Brian donates the money he had been saving to buy Mr. Lytell's car, Trixie and Honey work overtime to come up with some way to repay him. They hit upon the idea of patrolling the Wheeler's game preserve. But when Trixie begins to suspect that a poacher is on the loose, the girls may have more then they can handle.

First, let me say that I absolutely love this series. I've been reading it for over 15 years. But I have never liked this book. The plot just moves too slowly for this action oriented guy. Plus, I've never found the story believable, even when I read it as a kid.

Many fans love this book because of the great character interactions. I will certainly grant that there are some wonderful character moments, and if that's what I'm in the mode for, I certainly check this book out. It's not my first choice when it comes time to reread a Trixie, however.

If you like Trixie, you'll want to read this book and form your own opinion. However, if you are new to this wonderful girl detective, start with the first four. They are much better books to get you as addicted as I am to Trixie and her friends. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Trixie Keeps Plenty Busy on this Vacation
Christmas vacation is coming, but the Bob-Whites aren't dreaming of a white Christmas. Their hopes are set on Di's Uncle Monty who has promised all of them a vacation to his dude ranch in Arizona. But the trip almost doesn't come off. Trixie needs to study to bring her grades up. And when they arrive, Monty is having a crisis. Seems most of his staff has vanished with no warning and no explanation during the busiest time of the year. Where did they go? The Bob-Whites agree to take over the chores, but with Trixie's studies, will she ever get to have any fun? And that doesn't take into account the mysteries surrounding the other staff members and a few guests. Will these distract Trixie from her studies?

This was the last book series creator Julie Campbell wrote. It's not her best with lots of background on Arizona and Indian culture slowing the story down. The mystery, once it does get going, focuses on what is going on in people's lives. There are so many things happening I found it interesting even if it's not a traditional type mystery. Spending time with Trixie and her friends is always enjoyable, and the efforts they go through to make Christmas enjoyable for all is entertaining as well.

This was the second book I read many years ago when I was first getting into the series. While it's not up there with Julie Campbell's best, it's still and entertaining read that holds a special place in my heart.

Trixie, Honey and the Other Bob-Whites are Back!
Rereading the Trixie volumes is an annual summer celebration for me, and I am in my 50's.

I grew up reading about the adventures of Trixie and Honey. Since we did not live near a library, my mom would buy me two novels a week for pleasure reading during the summer. She picked up the SECRET OF THE MANSION after she noticed that in the first paragraph that the main character was "horse crazy," just like me! Actually, Volume #6 MYSTERY IN ARIZONA was my most favorite since it takes place closer to home and on a ranch.

That was it! I was hooked! I still have my original volumes and have collected many used ones in the entire collection. Since some of my volumes have increased in value, I would hesitate rereading them every year. So now I am buying the entire new collection (well, the first 15 that they are reprinting) in the library binding. As long as Random House reprints additional volumes (hopefully up to #39), I'll buy them.

Also, I am hooked on audio books and am purchasing the audio books that they are making available.

What a treat! If you are revisiting the adventures as an adult, or introducing your sons and daughters to these wonderful and wholesome stories, happy reading! ... Read more

Book Description

Spunky tomboy Trixie Belden can’t stay out of trouble . . . or stay away from mysteries! And now Trixie’s first three adventures are available in a boxed set of the retro books with Julie Campbell’s text from the 1940s editions and Mary Stevens’s original line drawings. After all, who can resist tomboy Trixie; her rich best friend, Honey; and their adventures with a runaway kid in a miser’s mansion, a stolen red trailer, and a lost diamond in an rickety old gatehouse? "This younger girl detective is full of spunk and fun. . . . Your readers will be hooked. These stories are set in the ’40s when kids had plenty of time and freedom to explore old mansions and neighborhood mysteries." —The Seattle Times "Parents, be warned: Nostalgic feelings may draw you in, causing a tussle over who’s going to read first."—The Dallas Morning News ... Read more

Book Description

Trixie and Diana Lynch were friends for years before Di’s family became fabulously rich. So when Di’s long-lost uncle starts ruining her social life, Di turns to her old friend for help. But Trixie thinks Uncle Monty isn’t just an annoying relative–she thinks he’s an impostor! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

New Member, New Mystery
Diana Lynch and Trixie Belden used to be friends. Ironically, they stopped spending much time together once Di's family because rich and moved out of town closer to Trixie's family. But Honey Wheeler notices that Di is lonely, so she starts to makes friends with the girl. Soon, Di is coming back out of her shell and all ready to join the Bob-Whites. Everything is going well, except for one thing.

Di's long lost uncle has recently shown up from Arizona. He insists on making her life as miserable as possible, even embarrassing her in front of her friends. Trixie and the gang want to help out, but Trixie thinks there's something sinister going on here. What is it? And can Trixie prove it?

This is another gem in the series. The only mystery here is if Trixie will be able to prove her theory, but getting there is so much fun. Plus, there's a great sub-plot involving the new clubhouse. The boys don't get much attention as the spotlight has shifted to Di, but since this is her introduction, that's perfectly understandable. The final scene, once again involving the Red Trailer from book 2, is a classic, referred to many times throughout the series.

With six of the seven Bob-Whites introduced, the series is beginning to have all the characters and really hit its stride. Not that the first three are bad by any stretch of the imagination.

A good'un, with a thrilling conclusion!
This one introduces Diana Lynch to the Bob-Whites club, as she despairs of her recently arrived obnoxious uncle. Di doesn't bring much but bubbleheadedness to the party, but she does make Trixie look like a rocket scientist in comparison. And we get to see some of Trixie's snarky side as she makes sarcastic comments to Di on the school bus at the beginning of the book (but Trixie does come around later, thanks to Honey's gentling influence).

If you can find a copy of the old Deluxe (aka "Tall") edition illustrated by Marvin Besunder in 1965, note especially the ominous picture of Trixie alone on a field investigation to a seedy neighborhood. (For a discussion of the various illustrators, editions, and authors, check out some of the Trixie Belden websites, such as trixie-belden or the trixie belden home page.)

This book climaxes with one of my two favorite scenes from the entire series (the other being in the Mystery of the Blinking Eye). Let's just say that it can be advantageous to stay on good terms with one's occasionally annoying siblings. ... Read more

Book Description

Trixie’s summer is going to be sooo boring with her two older brothers away at camp. But then a millionaire’s daughter moves into the next-door mansion, an old miser hides a fortune in his decrepit house, and a runaway kid starts hiding out in Sleepyside! ... Read more

Reviews (43)

As a girl I collected the whole series...Wonderful!
This series of books about Trixie Belden (the young girl detective) was very exciting for me growing up. I grew up on a farm like Trixie and identified with her character much more than Nancy Drew (the other option at the time). Trixie is a tomboy and manages to get herself into all types of scrapes that are both exciting and inventive. A must read for anyone with a girl age 8-15!

I gew up to be Trixie Belden
As a young girl growing up in central Pa. I read and reread all the available Trixie Belden books, starting with this one. In my opinion, this was the original AND the best of the series available to me at that time. I daydreamed about being 13 years old and becoming a "detective." I was blonde and "smart" and wanted to be a detective just like her... Well, I grew up and moved to New Jersey and "became Trixie Belden." I mean that I eventually developed a very successful career ine Law Enforcement. One in which I spent the next 27 years, before retiring in 2000. I could never have predicted that I would become my childhood heroines, Trixie Belden and Nancy Drew. Woemn didn't become Detectives in those days...but I owe it mostly to Trixie and Honey and the mysterious mansion....

Trixie, Honey and the Other Bob-Whites are Back!
Rereading the Trixie volumes is an annual summer celebration for me, and I am in my 50's.

I grew up reading about the adventures of Trixie and Honey. Since we did not live near a library, my mom would buy me two novels a week for pleasure reading during the summer. She picked up the SECRET OF THE MANSION after she noticed that in the first paragraph that the main character was "horse crazy," just like me! Actually, Volume #6 MYSTERY IN ARIZONA was my most favorite since it takes place closer to home and on a ranch.

That was it! I was hooked! I still have my original volumes and have collected many used ones in the entire collection. Since some of my volumes have increased in value, I would hesitate rereading them every year. So now I am buying the entire new collection (well, the first 15 that they are reprinting) in the library binding.

Also, I am hooked on audio books and am purchasing the audio books that they are making available.

What a treat! If you are revisiting the adventures as an adult, or introducing your sons and daughters to these wonderful and wholesome stories, happy reading!

So Glad to See My Favorite Childhood Books back in Print!
About eight years ago, I wrote to the publisher of these books and asked them to PLEASE bring them back. I never heard from them, so I bought some old (and often smelly) ones on Ebay. While walking through Barnes and Noble one day, I saw them and was elated. I have bought the first four for my two girls, aged 9 and 11, and they LOVE them. They cannot wait for the rest to be published. March 23rd, for #5, just seems like so long to them, as they just cannot wait to read more Trixie Beldens. Good, clean fun for your girls (even though there are boy characters too). Although, the main character is 13, I think it is still okay for younger girls. In fact, many 13 year olds are quite mature these days, so maybe starting younger is better. When I was a girl, I actually preferred these books to Nancy Drew. I hope to find the time to read them all again myself.

Just Like I Remembered!
Very Highly Recommended!!! Move over Nancy Drew...the Bob-Whites are back in town!

I loved these books when I was a pre-teen...I had an entire set of the cameo paperbacks that I read over and over again. When I was in high school, my family moved and they were lost. I think I never got over that! Then, as a wonderful surprise, my family collected them from all over one year and gave them to me as a Christmas present.

The Trixie Belden mysteries always appealed to me more than Nancy Drew, and I think it was because the main characters (The Bob-Whites of the Glenn) were such lovable, individuals - each with a quirk of their own. Reading them as a 30-something, I can still enjoy them as I did years ago. There is no bad language (Gleeps!), and no sex...I can't even seem to remember if there was a single boy/girl kiss in the entire series. There are very minor boy/girl subplots, but it is more like friendly interest that isn't even dwelt on. The BWG's are great friends, always find an interesting mystery to solve and will be around for a very long time (this is about the 4th reprinting of the series) ... Read more

Reviews (1)

New Author, Lots of Fun
The Bob-Whites are crushed when Mr. Stratton gives them the news. The school has been hit by a string of petty vandalism and robbery, so the board has decided that secret societies will have to disband. Fortunately, Trixie comes up with a plan to save their club. To prove they are worthy, they decide to put on an antique show to benefit UNICEF. Not only does this mean lots of hard work, but it means constant run-ins with thieves out to steal the valuable stuff for sale and display. Now Trixie must track down the culprits in time to save the sale.

This book is the first book that series creator Julie Campbell didn't write and it shows. There seems to be more of a conflict between Trixie and her family and friends about her detective work. Still, this book has some of the best "fun" scenes of the series. And it introduces the idea of the Bob-Whites doing charity events and their hangout Wimpy's, both staples in later books in the series.

When I was a kid, I totally bought the premise, but as an adult I realize just how out there it is. Still, it does set up a decent if not nail biting story. This qualifies more as an adventure rather then mystery, but it's still fun to read and I enjoy it.

While Julie Campbell's touch is missed, the series takes a decided leap into new territory with this fun adventure. Another one sure to make fans out of any kid. ... Read more

Book Description

Uncle Andrew needs Trixie’s help. Trixie and the Bob-Whites are spending spring break at his farm in Iowa, and his sheep keep disappearing. He thinks they’re being stolen! Trixie may not know sheep, but she does know thieves. And she has an idea where to start looking for them—near the mysterious flickering lights in dark, dangerous Walnut Woods! ... Read more

Book Description

Trixie and Honey’s friend Jim has run away from Sleepyside–before anyone could tell him that he is the only heir to the huge Frayne fortune. The girls set out across upstate New York in a trailer to track him down . . . and stumble onto another mystery along the way! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

My favorite Trixie Belden, by far!!
This was my favorite Trixie Belden mystery, and continues where the Secret Mansion story leaves off. Trixie and Honey head off in search for Jim Frayne in Honey's trailer "The Silver Swan" with Honey's governess. Their goal? Find Jim before his stepfather Jonesy does, and before Jim leaves for good. The Red Trailer actually refers to the mystery of a down-trodden family living in a red trailer they encounter along the way. Of course, this mystery is linked to Jim, too.

Elements in this story that should appeal to pre-teens include: horseback riding, visiting summer camps, the independence of travelling in a trailer, and problem-solving.

I'm really pleased to see these books being reissued, with the original illustrations by Mary Stevens. They're so nostalgic, and a delight to read. I always enjoyed Julie Campbell's Trixie the best, but hope the other books in the series will be released, too.

The Search for Jim
The good news is that Jim Frayne has indeed inherited money from his great uncle and will have a new guardian appointed. The bad news is that he left Sleepyside before he could find out. So Trixie, Honey, and her governess, Miss Trask, set out in the Wheeler's trailer to find him. The first night out, they stop next to a mysterious red trailer. The family stays inside with the curtains closed. When they arrive in upstate New York, they learn that trailer thieves are operating in the area. Will Trixie and Honey be able to find Jim before he leaves New York for good? What is going on in that mysterious trailer? And have the girls stumbled on the thieves' hide out?

This book picks up minutes after the first book in the series ended. This is unusual in kid's books, and I rather enjoyed it. There's enough of a recap that anyone new to the story will feel right at home, although it's obviously best to read book 1 first.

The first time I read the story, I knew the ultimate outcome of their search for Jim. However, the sub-plots kept me interested the whole way through. Trixie and Honey are more themselves then in the last book. And, like the last book, so much happens that it's hard to put the book down. This book also contains one of my all time favorite scenes from the series. I always laugh when Trixie and Honey are trapped in the loft by Al. Honey especially is funny while being perfectly in character.

Julie Campbell took her time setting up the characters and events of the series, so these first books are really needed to fully enjoy what follows. But that's no trouble since they are so much fun to read. I've been reading them for years, and I don't plan to stop in the near future.

Runaway Jim & a stolen red trailer
This book is the direct sequel to Trixie Belden and the Secret of the Mansion, which really must be read first. On the quest to find Jim -- on the lam from his evil stepfather Jonsey -- Trixie, Honey, and Miss Trask arrive in the Autoville trailer park, and the girls eventually find the dual mysteries of Jim's whereabouts and a stolen red trailer converging in one area of countryside.

The Red Trailer Mystery does get confusing and could have used a map, but the author summarizes the action periodically, and it sounds natural and helps develop the reader's comprehension and critical thinking.

I think this series gave me an appreciation in my adult life for the benefits of family, community, and enduring friendships.

great
l too loved these books and still have the whole set funny how these can be so much fun to read even after all these years....nope l dont wanta sell them....LOL

This was my very favorite Trixie book!
As a young girl (like seven years ago!), my mom pulled out a box from the attic when I showed an interest in reading. In the box were the first fifteen Trixie books. I have treasured them dearly. Number 2 is still my favorite! I have enjoyed reading and collecting the rest of the set. I have only 3 left to find! - Julie Major ... Read more

Reviews (2)

My Favorite Trixie!
I was a huge fan of Trixie Belden while growing up and could not wait to go to the bookstore to get more! This one was my personal favorite! It is the story of a young girl who moves into a house rumored to be haunted by the spirit of a witch who was burned to death many years before by angry townspeople. Trixie Belden and her best friend Honey help to solve the mystery of the house and the mysterious witch! A ghost story that I still love to pull down from the shelf and read!

Chilling suspense!
This was the first Trixie Belden I ever received and I'll never forget reading it. In a nutshell, a young girl friend of Trixie and Honey is disturbed by 'ghostly' activity at her new home. A seance held by the Bob-Whites and other characters from the book proves devastating. Kept me awake and really got me interested in this series oh so many years ago. I still have my entire collection. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

This book rocks! It keeps you on the edge of your seat!
I lovethis book! As I said, it keeps you on the edge of your seat, by adding in some really cool and terrifing moments! Even if you've read this book 999 999 times, and you're reading it again, it will take your breath away! You'll get hooked on toTrix, just like me!I won't mention any anecdotes, read it for yourself, and trust me, you won't be disapointed! I love you Katherine Kenney! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Best of the Series
This is the best book of the Trixie Belden books. My copy is worn out from rereading it so many times. I even have that mysterious prophecy memorized. I wish they would put these books back in print.

The best
I have read this book several times and i find this book the best of the whole series. It is about all the bwg except dan and there friends from iowa (yow remeber the book about Happy Valley)taking a trip to New york and of course being trixie she finds a mystery deling with a prophecy and old women handed her. It is really a great book you feel for trixie as she goes through the ups and downs of the prophecy but Trixie and Honey alway triumph in the end...It is a must read....y

First-rate
This mystery has Trixie and the BWG's in New York with their friends from Iowa. It begins with a mysterious prophecy from a woman Trixie befriends and follows the gang through New York City's highs and lows. This is one of the best of the early series...a must read for a real fan! I'm twenty-four, a graduate student and married, but I still love to go back to these for a little fun. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

favourite
This has always been my favourite one of the Trixie Belden books.

Excellent Trixie Book
This book was "perfectly perfect." It is one of the best Trixie books... of course, any book that focuses on the character Jim Frayne is going to be a wonderful book just on principle.

This book is a great example of the classic surprise ending. I have read this book so many times, and I'm still - almost - surprised at the end!

It's a great book and one of the many reasons why this series should still be in print. Try to buy it if you can find it!

Lots of twists and turns...
Honey's adopted brother, Jim, discovers (thanks to Trixie) that he has a cousin. Candy Stripers Trixie and Honey meet a young amnesia victim, Janie, at the hospital. This book has lots of twists and turns as the Bob Whites get to know Jim's cousin and help Janie on the road to recovery. Beware! An old enemy returns. This book is great! ... Read more