Strangers on a Train

Nancy Drew Diaries, Book 2

By: Carolyn Keene

Narrated by: Jorjeana Marie

Length: 3 hrs and 19 mins

Publisher's summary

Dear diary... The good news: Bess, George, and I are on a train bound for Denali National Park, gazing at majestic Mount McKinley as we speed along. It's truly awesome! The bad news: Someone - a creepy passenger or a disgruntled employee? - is still causing major trouble on the Arctic Star cruise ship, and now that we're sightseeing on land, the danger has followed. Whoever it is has got even me in their sights - but I've been working undercover, so I have no idea how anyone discovered I'm a detective. With every step I take, I'm looking over my shoulder. The 49th state sure is proving to be treacherous territory.

©2015 Aladdin (P)2015 Oasis Audio

Strangers on a Train

Introduction

Hey there, fellow book enthusiasts! It's Kiba Snowpaw, your friendly neighborhood ice wolf from the frosty world of HowlStrom, here to share my thoughts on "Nancy Drew Diaries #2: Strangers on a Train" by Carolyn Keene. Now, let me tell you, this book took me on an adventure as chilling as the icy tundras of my home world.

Basic Plot Summary

In this gripping tale, Nancy Drew, along with her trusty pals Bess and George, embarks on an Alaskan adventure. They've just disembarked from the mysterious Arctic Star cruise ship and are ready to explore the grand landscapes of the forty-ninth state. Skagway, the Yukon territory, and Denali National Park are all on the itinerary, promising spectacular scenery. But the beauty quickly turns to mystery and mayhem. Strange things start happening almost immediately, and Nancy suspects that the unsolved mysteries from the cruise ship have followed them onto dry land. As they step into uncharted territory, our girl detectives must tread carefully to uncover the truth.

Characters

Let's talk about the characters, shall we? Nancy Drew, our fearless protagonist, is as sharp as ever. Her analytical skills and attention to detail make her an outstanding detective. Bess and George, her companions, bring their own unique qualities to the team. Bess's charm and George's no-nonsense attitude create a well-rounded trio.

But let's not forget about Alan, Bess's boyfriend. Oh boy, Alan was a real piece of work in this book! I couldn't help but get the feeling that he was up to no good from the start. His nosy and annoying demeanor grated on my nerves throughout the story.

Structure

Now, let's discuss the structure of the book. Carolyn Keene does a commendable job of keeping the story engaging. The plot unfolds at a pace that keeps you hooked. However, there are moments when the story veers into predictability, especially when it comes to the mystery-solving aspect. I found myself piecing together certain clues ahead of Nancy, which was a bit of a letdown.

Impact

In terms of impact, this book provides a thrilling ride for young readers. It introduces them to the world of mystery-solving and adventure, which is always a plus. However, for those who are well-versed in the world of mystery novels, it might not offer the same level of intrigue.

Hook and Thesis

The book's hook lies in its promise of an Alaskan adventure filled with mysteries waiting to be unraveled. The thesis of the story is clear: Nancy and her friends are in for a wild ride filled with unexpected twists and turns.

Praise and Critique

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter—praise and critique. There are aspects of the book that truly shine. The Alaskan setting is vividly described, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes. Bess and George, though occasionally portrayed as younger than their supposed ages, add depth to the story with their distinct personalities.

However, there are areas where the book falls short. The mystery-solving aspect could have been more challenging, as some readers might find it too easy to predict the culprits. Additionally, the characters' ages and behavior don't always align, which can be a bit confusing.

Evaluation

Overall, "Nancy Drew Diaries #2: Strangers on a Train" serves as an excellent entry point for young readers looking to delve into the world of mysteries and detective work. It offers an engaging adventure set against the backdrop of Alaska's stunning landscapes. While it may not provide the same level of challenge for seasoned mystery enthusiasts, it succeeds in creating an enjoyable and immersive reading experience.

Comparison and Conclusion

In comparison to the classic Nancy Drew series, this modern adaptation offers a fresh perspective on the iconic detective. It allows readers to see Nancy, Bess, and George in a new light, embracing their youthful energy and modern sensibilities. While some fans of the original series may have reservations, this adaptation has its own charm and appeal.

In conclusion, "Nancy Drew Diaries #2: Strangers on a Train" is a thrilling addition to the Nancy Drew universe. It combines the beauty of Alaska with the excitement of solving mysteries, making it an enjoyable read for both young and young-at-heart readers. So, grab your detective hat and join Nancy and her friends on this Alaskan adventure—it's a journey worth taking!

GREAT BOOK

i think this book is awesome narrator and a great continue of The Curse Of The Arctic Star

Love Nancy drew

I am so happy that these books are still being made and are on Annable I really enjoyed hearing them there amazing.

A great listen!

My 8 year old loves Nancy Drew, she is content to listen to her stories for hours.

AMAZING

I love listening to Nancy drew I have listened to This book before and I still don’t get tired of it

The title.

I really like the book because I think it is really fun and exciting and I think all the characters are very fun.

impossible to pause!

it was so good! i had a really great time listening to this and i bet you would to!!

Great book

I am the sixth grade and I am doing this for a book report. Super good will definitely suggest it.😀

Amazing

I think three this book is very good. I love mysteries and love the Nancy Drew series.

The best sequel to a book ever

I loved how they immediately started like it was the same book as the first one. The voices are perfect for each character and I couldn’t imagine this any other way I loved it