A daring and evocative jungle adventure involving three children, a mysterious monkey, and a sinister treasure, this story is set in the colonial era. And unlike most stories written in that time period, it does its native characters and culture due justice.

Enigmatic, engrossing and enjoyable, and with a satisfying baddie quotient, it is well worth checking out!

Roma longs to study medicine, but her father thinks science is not an appropriate subject for girls. So, when she discovers a rare golden leaf-eating monkey far from its home, she is determined to return it to its so-far undiscovered habitat, to prove her worth as a scientist. But when the monkey is captured by group of bandits, she's forced to enlist the help of two pampered English children to pull off a daring rescue.

Set in 19th century India, "The Golden Monkey Mystery" by Piu DasGupta is an exciting historical adventure. I adored the fiercely independent and determined main character Roma who is empathetic as much as she is brave. But also her initially somewhat hapless travel companions come into their own, and it was lovely seeing a friendship form between the three main characters.

The book contains fun illustrations throughout that make the reader look at things from a different perspective. I also really enjoyed that we get to see at the end what the main characters go on to achieve years after the story concludes.

While "The Golden Monkey Mystery" is linked to Piu DasGupta's previous novel "Secrets of the Snakestone", you don't need to have read the first book. I hadn't, and it didn't affect the reading experience, but it's made me excited to read more by this author!

A very engaging and empowering middle grade book.

Roma is a likeable and brave main character.
She finds a monkey and sets out on an adventurous journey to save everyone and find her true self.

The illustrations were cool.

Very fitting book for middle grade children.

A fast-paced and thrilling adventure set in 1880s India. Filled to the brim with exciting characters, wonderful wordplay and an engaging subtext.
Top Notch!

Thank-you to Nosy Crow and NetGalley for the advanced copy.