Chasing Vermeer

Reviewer: Kathy Hoffmaster

Title: Chasing Vermeer (audio book)
Author: Blue Balliet, Read by Ellen Reilly

Publisher: Random House 2004 
Available in Woodlynde Library

1. Why I picked up this book.

I picked up this audio book because I like to learn about famous artists while reading. I also like keeping up with young adult literature, and the cover illustration had an alluring, foreboding feeling.

2. Why I finished this book.

I totally love listening to audio books on my drive to and from school. The main characters were quirky soon to be 12-year olds who introduced me to the world of pentominoes. If you don't know about pentominoes, I'll let you do your own fun research, as I did. The story, though quite improbable, was an interesting look at the patterns right in front of the listener's ears and imagination. I also discovered the patterns evident in Vermeer's paintings as I followed along in this mystery.

3. Who I would give this book to, and why.

Most younger Middle School girls would enjoy this art mystery. Boys who sometimes feel that they are on the outside or who are interested in the art world might also find the story appealing.