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Sometimes it’s good to have your head in the stars.
Quinn Knight, a new sixth-grader at Hill Springs Middle School in Central Texas, has always been a little different. Not only is she an astrophotographer who battles chronic migraine headaches, she’s recently discovered that the stars—the Pleiades constellation, to be exact—are trying to tell her something.
Someone is threatening Quinn’s older sister, eighth-grade social butterfly Vivica, and Quinn realizes the clever constellation is revealing the clues she needs to save her sister! But she can’t let anyone know she’s having cosmic conversations—making it in middle school is hard enough as it is—so Quinn keeps the secret message-sending stars under wraps. Soon, Quinn and her new friends, Tiya and Xavier, are hot on the trail of Vivica’s mysterious tormentor. But sometimes, there are more questions than answers written in the stars.
Will Quinn’s “artistic scientist” powers of observation and creative thinking be enough to solve the case or will Vivica’s nemesis knock her off her social throne in epic fashion? Join Quinn and her quirky family and friends to find out if the stars will align in this exhilarating mystery of cosmic proportions.
Praise from the Pros for Constellation Clues: The Cipher of the Seven Stars
“A clever, uplifting, and entertaining story. … Reed’s well-paced mystery is imbued with comedy and heartfelt moments. Quinn is a smart and spirited protagonist and narrator whose wry humor and can-do attitude will make her relatable to young readers. Throughout, Reed depicts Quinn’s struggles with migraines, as well as other chatacters’ health concerns … with honesty and sensitivity. … The novel’s positive portrayal of young, STEM-inclined female characters is refreshing as well.”
–Kirkus Reviews
“Reed’s pleasantly descriptive, vivid writing is as spirited as her lead character. Quinn’s narrative voice is distinctive from the first page and will keep readers emotionally invested in her journey. … From her passion for learning about space to her struggles with chronic migraines, Quinn is an unusual protagonist. Quinn’s family members (notably, her self-centered sister, Vivica) and friends are all provided with … depth and individuality.”
–BookLife Prize
“Constellation Clues offers a strong protagonist, an engaging plot, and a mystery to keep young readers pondering. I loved the interesting tidbits on constellations, especially the myths about the Pleiades. Like the seven sisters in the sky, each of the three Knight sisters was a star, excelling in their respective fields. I loved how Quinn proved her talents as an “artistic scientist.” Despite suffering from debilitating migraine attacks, her creative experiments and cool logic were needed to solve the mystery. The passionate, sassy Vivica and the caring, dependable Georgie stole my heart, as did Tiya and Xavier with their endearing quirks. I loved the visuals Lee Reed included with her vivid descriptions, be it of the inky black sky with twinkling stars or the dance floor with its unique décor. The upheavals of middle school drama, the thrilling adventures inside dark caves, and the cryptic messages from the stars added to the charm. I also admired the positive message the story conveyed regarding inclusivity. Constellation Clues: The Cipher of the Seven Stars is an engaging read with both entertainment and educational value.”
–Readers’ Favorite (5-star review)
What Readers Are Saying
I transcribed this from a conversation with my son who has LOVED this book. Aside from much shorter books, I can’t think of any book he’s read more than twice and he’s almost done with the fourth read of this one.
Nils and Louis (Goodreads review)
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My name is Louis and I have read Constellation Clues three times, working on my fourth, and I am nine years old. I think other kids would like this book because it is a very good mystery novel. I’m a really big fan of mysteries. So I think other people who like mysteries would love this book. My favorite detail of the book is that it’s based on Greek myths and I just joined a Greek mythology Club at my school and it has been my favorite Greek myth so far. I usually like to read books like Harry Potter? And sometimes the Wimpy Kid. The next constellation that is used in the series constellation clues will be Orion. I can’t wait for it it come out!
This was a wonderfully done mystery novel, it had everything that I was looking for from a children’s fiction novel. The concept worked well with what I was hoping for and enjoyed about the genre. The characters were interesting and felt like real people. Lee Reed has a great writing style and can’t wait for more from the author.
Kathryn M. (NetGalley Review)
Purchased 2 of these books for my grandchildren (boy and a girl) – the book is fun and deals with sensitive issues in a humorous and very thoughtful way. Lee Reed is an amazing author, keep the books coming!
Kit (Amazon review)
Super fun and engaging tale for little that packs a surprise emotional punch. Great introductory to story to topics of diversity, disability, and inclusion. A fantastic addition to any educator or parent’s bookshelf.
Tori Ashley M. (NetGalley review)
A fun story about a girl who is stressed about going to a new school but ends up making new friends. There is a great mystery aspect that she tries to solve with her friends, there is a fun theme of stars and space and, the best part, there is chronic migraine representation! I don’t think I’ve ever seen that in a book, never mind a kids book and I loved it.
Melanie A. (NetGalley review)
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would, given that I’m really not the target audience for the book. A fun light read that reminded me of childhood, but also an unexpectedly deep one and a very likeable protagonist. I especially appreciated the exploration of illness, disability and inclusivity. Will make sure my younger sister gets to read it as well.
Olivia L. (NetGalley review)
My daughter will be entering middle school shortly and she loved this book! She doesn’t get migraines but has her own struggles. She loves solving puzzles and mysteries. She has a “book club” with her friends and wants the group to add this to their TBR list.
Samantha O. (Goodreads review)
This book is fantastic and one I will be reading over and over again! Not only does it heavily revolve around constellations/stars, and space but it also features a girl who has chronic migraines! Which isn’t something I think I’ve ever seen before. As a kid with chronic migraines I really appreciate this book! Plus there’s even a mystery involved in this! Such an awesome story and I can’t wait to see what comes next!!!
Ava F. (Goodreads review)
I found this to be a great story about making new friends and learning more about yourself. The children working to make accommodations for each other and to make sure everyone can participate is something I see every day at the school I work in and it was heartwarming to read. I look forward to future sequels and will recommend this to my nieces and nephews.
Mariah W. (Goodreads review)
I honestly adore this book. It’s for middle grade readers, but I’m about to be 28 and I found it to be a fun read. I loved that the main character deals with migraines (in that we don’t see representation for it often). I deal with migraines myself and it was nice to see it written out like it was.
Brianna A. (Goodreads review)
This was a very well written, easy to read story. It’s perfect for younger readers, with lots of twists and turns and relatable content. I appreciate the author pointing out how many young people struggle with undisclosed health problems that make them miss out on a lot of normative experiences just so they don’t have to worry about inconveniencing others. It’s especially a great read for anyone who deals with chronic migraines and wants to feel seen. I did find myself pretty annoyed at most of the adults actions/words (except for the nurse RJ, of course) but I used to feel the same when I read as a kid so I guess nothing has changed 😅 overall, I recommend this for any young reader and anyone who’s interested in a good mystery! It kept me guessing until the reveal, and I’ll admit it wasn’t who I thought! I definitely want to read the second one.
Emma D. (NetGalley review)
This is a lovely and inclusive mid grade book about science, art, love, family, differences, living with long-term/chronic health conditions, solidarity, friendship and many more good or inclusive topics. The characters are relatable and resourceful.
(NetGalley review)