Ripper by Stefan Petrucha - ADVISABLE

Petrucha, Stefan Ripper. Philomel Books, 2012. $17.99, 416 pages. Language: PG-13 (12 swears, but some fairly heavy dialogue) Violence: PG-13 (murders, that aren’t graphic, and fighting) No sexual content. 

Ripper follows an orphan named Carter who gets the chance to fulfill his lifelong dream of being a detective when he is adopted by a legendary member of the Pinkerton Detective Agency and tasked with finding a serial killer (who may or may not be Jack the Ripper) while trying to locate his father. He travels through late 19th century New York meeting real-life characters from history while trying to catch a killer.  

This book is very clever. The premise is well conceived and executed. The author creates a realistic world with some steam punk elements that will attract those of that ilk. It contains a great twist and enough stand-out, likeable characters that will leave kids asking is there is a sequel. 

MS/HS – ADVISABLE.  Reviewer: Ben