Trixie Belden and the Secret of the Mansion by Kenny (1977, Paperback)

This is the first book in the Trixie Belden series. In this book, we are introduced to 13-year old Trixie and her family plus many of the other characters in the series. Honey Wheeler's family has just moved into the nearby Manor House, and Trixie is instantly curious about her new neighbors- especially when she sees they own horses! Despite their differences, Trixie and Honey become friends. Then they meet Jim Frayne, who has run away from home to escape an abusive stepfather. He arrives in their little town of Sleepyside on a mission to find his only living relative who he hopes can help him. Instead, he finds that his Great-Uncle has been hospitalized and his home is in ill-kept ruins. Complicating the issue, it was rumored that a fortune was hidden in the old mansion (nicknamed "miser's mansion") and Jim's cruel stepfather wants control of the money...

When the book is finished the reader is left wondering what happens next, and has to get the second book to find out. It's a fun series!

This book's original copyright date was 1948, which means that the book might seem a bit dated to kids these days. You won't find any mention of a cell phone or even a television set in this book; the kids all entertain themselves with real-life adventures. The books were dated by the time I read them in the 80's, but that didn't bother me; I loved them. So, it's the kid in me who is rating the book 5 stars. Parents will love the books too because they are totally wholesome reading material. Recommended reading for 'tweens and young teens.

Super books full of wholesome mysterys that I read as a child. SOmewhat dated in the material but still great reading for children with no bad language and family values. Teaches to help one another and to earn what you have. I love to read them to my kids every night, they can't wait to hear what happens next!

It was very important that I purchase this particular book. It is the first book in the series and it lays all the background for the characters and the series. It is like revisiting an old friend. I read this series over 30 years ago and wanted to reread them before passing them on to my niece, who isn't even old enough to read yet! BUT she will reach that age and I am hoping will enjoy the series as much as I did. This is not the best Trixie Belden book written, but it is the most important and the keystone book to have. It is a must if you are reading this series.