M.M. Downing

Living on the streets in the late 1930's isn't only hard, it's a non-stop adventure with thieves, missing orphans, and evil intrigue.

Lewis and his best friend, Pearl, are dead...or so one of the most notorious criminals in Pittsburgh believes. Since the entire Flash Gang survived by the skin of their teeth, they're trying their best not to draw attention...which means no more secret explosions of light. Without the help of the flashes, their ability to nab food and to find information to put the criminal, who killed Lewis' father,. behind bars has suffered. When one their own members disappears, they stumble across what might be another scheme of the criminal organization. And this time, all of their lives are in danger.

I did not read the first book in this series, which proved not to be too much of a problem. While incidents from the first adventure are mentioned and the story builds from one book to the next, the author makes sure to sneak in enough information to give readers a pretty good handle on what's going on. I do, however, recommend reading this as a series, since the adventure is written as such.

The streets of the late 1930's in Pittsburgh set the stage for this fast-paced adventure. The Flash Gang is a small group of streetlers, who pinch (steal) to survive but help others where they can. They're a fun, kind, and lively bunch of friends, and each has their own talents and quirks. The historical setting comes through nicely, and while the problems the kids face in every day life isn't hidden, the tale doesn't concentrate on that aspect. Instead, these issues slide in naturally, giving the world vividness and depth without obvious descriptions.

It's the mystery and adventure, which drive this read forward. The clues steadily stream in, but these aren't easy to decipher...not that there's much time spent on the contemplation as the dangerous situations keep the heroes on their toes. There's quite a bit of action and tension to make to a fast-paced read the entire way through. Then, there's the characters, who aren't only dealing with the mystery and danger but also deal with issues surrounding trust and loyalty. Add a fitting sprinkle of humor, especially from Pearl's side, and it's a very balanced read with lots to enjoy.… (lisätietoja)

I received this through LibraryThing Early Readers.

Pittsburgh, 1935 — times are tough for everyone.

Lewis Carter considers himself a “Streeter” due to his living habits. He is trying to find his father, who left home for a meeting and has never come back. Lewis has chosen this life over being an orphan and being swept into that world. Lewis has created a place to sleep and be safe.

He also has a “trick” to help make it easier to pinch food. He has a recipe from his Dad that creates a blinding blue flash. It is a distraction and makes it hard for people to dee what’s going on around them. This gives him a cover to steal. Rumour is the flash is created by the Flash Gang when these thefts occur.

Lewis meets up with Pearl Alice Clavell one day. Pearl has styled herself after Lola Lavender, a radio show heroine. Pearl wears a pink tutu, pink ballet slippers and pink ribbons in her hair. She lives with her Aunt Gimlick, as her father is off exploring, but Pearl has no affection for her aunt and her aunt has no affection for Pearl and spends her time involved with the local Nazi movement.

Lewis is kidnapped by a bull man named Scruggs. Scruggs has been hired to find the red book that contains the recipes Lewis’ father has developed. Lewis’ father is a professor in Chemistry – explosives stuff.

Pearl steps up to rescue Lewis in her klutzy way. At first Lewis doesn’t want anything to do with Pearl, but in time finds Pearl to be dedicated to helping Lewis find his dad.

The story is full of action and adventure. Kidnapping, espionage, trust, support, independence and more are found woven into the book. There were times that were close calls — but all was good!… (lisätietoja)

Eleven-year-old Lewis Carter is an orphan, a 'streeter,' in 1935 Great-Depression Pittsburgh. His father, an industrial chemist, disappeared some months ago while working to find something beneficial out of slag waste from steel mills. Lewis uses bits of his father's research to produce bright, harmeless explosions -- 'flashes,' which help him pinch food and supplies to survive on the streets, though his asthma slows him down. Unfortunately for him, nefarious characters want to find the secret formula. Fortunately for him, he encounters Pearl Alice Clavell, clad in a bright pink ballerina outfit, as they plunge into a whirlwind adventure with reporters and mobsters and Nazis worthy of radio heiress and heroine Lola Lavender herself. I really enjoyed this novel, and it did read somewhat like an old-time radio serial broadcast, with cliffhangers and narrow escapes and constant peril. There were calmer and more reflective moments too. Highly looking forward to the next one.… (lisätietoja)