The Vanishing of Katharina Linden by Helen Grant


Pia Kolvenbach is living a relatively peaceful existence with her German father and British mother in the tiny town of Bad Munstereifel when her beloved and beautiful Grandmother Kristal dies in a freak accident at Pia's home. Inevitably, her cruel classmates mock her as she quickly becomes the 'girl with the grandmother that exploded.' When children start disappearing from Bad Munstereifel, Pia thinks she has caught a break, but the latest scandal doesn't stop her classmates from continuing to taunt her. Pia, along with her only friend (fellow class reject Stink Stefan), decides to solve the mystery in order to regain her social status. What follows is a gripping, suspenseful, and incredibly insightful story of life in a small town. This is the perfect book for expats living in Germany or for anyone who likes mysteries. Pia's authentic and likeable voice will appeal to teens as well. Don't miss the extremely corny book trailer. Grade 8+

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