The Interstellar Detectives

by P.J. Nichols

(Previously published as Screed Palin and the Interstellar Detectives) What 12-year-old wouldn’t want to grow up to be an Interstellar Detective? A hero who travels the cosmos, using their intellect and skills to unravel mysteries and save civilizations? Well, Screed Palin—a piano-loving kid who dreams of becoming a composer—didn’t originally plan on that kind of life. When Screed realizes that he possesses a rare and special talent, one that could make him the greatest Interstellar Detective ever, he accepts his challenging destiny. But mere months after starting his 6-year training, a perilous and baffling situation arises on a far-off world. Screed and his friends—despite their young age—are sent on a mission that, if unsuccessful, would leave an entire race at risk of being annihilated...

Genres: Science Fiction, Childrens

231 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 13, 2023

About the author

P.J. Nichols is an author who really, really loves games. But not the kind you buy at stores. And not the kind you practice and practice and practice to get good at. He likes the games you think up and make by yourself.

No matter where he is, or what things are around him, P.J. will find a way to create a game. One where you race. Or one where you build. Or one where you think. Or maybe even one where you do all three.

Back when he was growing up with his three brothers in Canada, he was constantly making games. Neighborhood kids (and even some of their parents) would run over to join in. There was never a boring moment in or around the Nichols’ house.

P.J. is sure that his debut novel, Puzzled, will have you rushing to think up games for your friends, brothers, sisters, or parents to try!

Reviews

[Janet Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great interactive book for middle school aged kids!

It is a great story and has good dramatic tension and creative images. I love that the writer has interacted with the reader from time to time to give the reader the opportunity to guess what is about to happen.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a septuagenarian who loves to read and I read a wide range of books. This pre-teen/teen book was a very enjoyable read and I will recommend it to my 9 year 0ld twin grandsons the next time I am with them. I think they will really enjoy it.

[papasteve · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun middle grade read, and if I were a middle-schooler, I know I would have enjoyed the many times P.J. invited the reader into the action, being included as one of the “detectives.”