"Vanished," by Sheela Chari

Vanished is a modern Nancy Drew-type mystery with an Indian flare. When her veena disappears, Neela Krishnan is thrown head first into a plot filled with curses and cryptic clues. The veena, a large Indian stringed instrument, was a gift from her grandmother. At least, that's what Neela assumes when her grandmother's instrument arrives in the mail with no explanation attached.

Neela is unsure if it is the veena's sentimental value or some greater force that drives her to find the instrument after it is stolen, but she just can't let the mystery go unsolved. Despite rumours of the veena's sinister past and a threatening note, Neela is determined to get it back.

The more she investigates, the more complicated the story gets. The web of clues and suspicions gets more tangled with every page, drawing Neela further and further into the puzzle. It soon becomes clear that there are greater powers at play, and the disappearance of the veena was not a one-off theft. Neela discovers that she must go to India, where the mystery began years before she was born, if she ever wants to see her grandmother's instrument again.

What sets Vanished apart from other whodunnits is the insight into Indian culture that is woven seamlessly into the storyline. This new take on the classic mystery genre was both refreshing and educational for me. I would recommend this book to readers close to Neela's 11 years of age, although the frequent plot twists and suspense are sure to keep children of all ages hooked.

Reviewed by Lia Codrington