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Daisy Tannenbaum #3
Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa
Miss Daisy Tannenbaum, almost thirteen, and homeschooling in Paris with her Aunt Millicent, takes a break from the City of Light and her dreaded math homework, and heads to a rambling chateau in the Loire Valley to help her Aunt Mill’s friend, former-spy Felix, catalog his art collection. But when Daisy receives a copy of the Mona Lisa as a thank you, strange things start to happen. This Mona is not just any copy, it’s one of two perfect forgeries created to fool the Nazis during their hunt for the real Mona Lisa during WWII. Daisy’s best friend from the states, Lucia, a newly minted teen model, and in Paris to audition for the spring runway shows, thinks Daisy’s Mona is the real one. Real or not, it’s worth a fortune, and when Felix suddenly dies, his family accuses Daisy of stealing it. Our plucky heroine must navigate a world of crazy, scheming, often criminal adults, not to mention traveling ghosts, ginormous pigs, testy lawyers, former spies, and obnoxious fashionistas, as she finds herself in a harrowing chase in and around Paris while trying to outwit them all to keep her beloved Mona.
- GenresMysteryMiddle Grade
253 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2022
About the author
J.T. Allen
3 books14 followersJ.T. Allen is a long-time screenwriter who sold his first script while living in Paris. He then moved to Los Angeles and wrote several early drafts of The Lion King. His television movie credits include TNT's Geronimo and The Good Old Boys, FX's Redemption and CBS's Death in Paradise.
The first Daisy Tannenbaum misadventure, Daisy and the Pirates, started as a pitch for a Disney Channel movie. Allen loved the character, who was inspired by his two daughters, and wrote his first novel instead. Daisy in Exile, the second in the series, began as chapters for Daisy's blog, "My Stupid Journal". Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa will be published on November 1, 2022.
In the meantime, this very instant, Daisy is getting into more mischief while happily avoiding her math homework. She'll no doubt tell Mr. Allen all about it for another book in the Daisy Tannenbaum Misadventure series.
To find out more about Mr. Allen and Miss Daisy Tannenbaum please visit www.DaisyTannenbaum.com.
The first Daisy Tannenbaum misadventure, Daisy and the Pirates, started as a pitch for a Disney Channel movie. Allen loved the character, who was inspired by his two daughters, and wrote his first novel instead. Daisy in Exile, the second in the series, began as chapters for Daisy's blog, "My Stupid Journal". Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa will be published on November 1, 2022.
In the meantime, this very instant, Daisy is getting into more mischief while happily avoiding her math homework. She'll no doubt tell Mr. Allen all about it for another book in the Daisy Tannenbaum Misadventure series.
To find out more about Mr. Allen and Miss Daisy Tannenbaum please visit www.DaisyTannenbaum.com.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 23, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- Very cool cover on this one!
This was my introduction to the Daisy Tannenbaum series (and J.T. Allen), and it was a super cute middle grade read. It was well written and well paced. Held up well as a standalone. I adored the Paris setting. The plot was engaging, and had some heartfelt moments. The characters themselves were very likable. However, I do think Daisy and her friend's read like they were older than 12. (and 15?). I also thought the ending felt a little rushed, but overall this was a quick and entertaining read. I'll definitely keep my eyes out for the next in the series.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
This was my introduction to the Daisy Tannenbaum series (and J.T. Allen), and it was a super cute middle grade read. It was well written and well paced. Held up well as a standalone. I adored the Paris setting. The plot was engaging, and had some heartfelt moments. The characters themselves were very likable. However, I do think Daisy and her friend's read like they were older than 12. (and 15?). I also thought the ending felt a little rushed, but overall this was a quick and entertaining read. I'll definitely keep my eyes out for the next in the series.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
December 15, 2022
The third Daisy Tannenbaum Misadventure finds Daisy traveling to a chateau to stay with Felix, a friend of her aunt's. When she goes to leave Felix gifts her a copy of the Mona Lisa they found while cleaning the chateau. Although her best friend Lucia, in town for fashion week, thinks it is the real deal, Daisy knows it is a good forgery made during WWII to fool the Nazis. Soon though, Felix dies and his relatives accuse Daisy of theft. When the painting then goes missing, Daisy decides to investigate to get her painting back.
There was less mystery here than I though there would be, but I really enjoyed it once Daisy got back to Paris with the painting (before that it was a little slow). I liked the plucky character of Daisy and I definitely want to go back and read the first two in this series. I'm looking forward to seeing what other misadventures Daisy has in the future!
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
There was less mystery here than I though there would be, but I really enjoyed it once Daisy got back to Paris with the painting (before that it was a little slow). I liked the plucky character of Daisy and I definitely want to go back and read the first two in this series. I'm looking forward to seeing what other misadventures Daisy has in the future!
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2022
Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa is the third installment in the Daisy Tannenbaum series by J.T. Allen. In this adventure, Daisy is gifted a nearly flawless forgery of the Mona Lisa as payment for helping her aunt’s ailing friend catalog his art collection. But when his family finds out that she was given the painting, they will stop at nothing to get it back.
Fast-paced, fun, and at times poignant, Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa is a story about integrity, loyalty, and authenticity. She’s an admirable character who puts others before herself and fights to do the right thing, even if she has to tell some white lies and get out of her math homework in order to carry out those battles. I recommend this novel to any older middle grade or young YA reader who is looking for an energetic adventure story featuring an exquisitely crafted female hero.
You can read my full review here: https://laurasbooksandblogs.com/daisy...
Fast-paced, fun, and at times poignant, Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa is a story about integrity, loyalty, and authenticity. She’s an admirable character who puts others before herself and fights to do the right thing, even if she has to tell some white lies and get out of her math homework in order to carry out those battles. I recommend this novel to any older middle grade or young YA reader who is looking for an energetic adventure story featuring an exquisitely crafted female hero.
You can read my full review here: https://laurasbooksandblogs.com/daisy...
February 3, 2023
This was my introduction to Miss Daisy Tennenbaum and the Daisy Tennenbaum series.
In this story, Daisy heads for a break in the Loire Valley to help her Aunts friend Felix, who is a former spy sort out his art collection. On her departure, Felix gives her a copy of the Mona Lisa, a very good forgery from WWII. When Felix dies, his relatives accused Daisy of theft, the painting goes missing and Daisy decides to get her painting back
This was an awesome quick and entertaining read. It was full of adventure and action, with a touch of danger and intrigue. This is the third book in the series, however, I was able to read and appreciate the story and characters without reading books one and two.
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In this story, Daisy heads for a break in the Loire Valley to help her Aunts friend Felix, who is a former spy sort out his art collection. On her departure, Felix gives her a copy of the Mona Lisa, a very good forgery from WWII. When Felix dies, his relatives accused Daisy of theft, the painting goes missing and Daisy decides to get her painting back
This was an awesome quick and entertaining read. It was full of adventure and action, with a touch of danger and intrigue. This is the third book in the series, however, I was able to read and appreciate the story and characters without reading books one and two.
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 19, 2023
3/5 stars
Thirteen-year old Daisy Tannenbaum, an American girl living in Paris and homeschooling with her Aunt Mill, takes a break from city life and spends two weeks staying in a remote French chateau with her aunt's friend, Felix. Among the historic items at the chateau is a famous replica of the Mona Lisa that was used as a decoy in WWII, and a dramatic series of events kicks off with Daisy and the Mona Lisa at the center. I won't say much more because I feel the official synopsis gives away too much.
Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa was a fun read! Daisy is a smart, resourceful, clever protagonist and the ensemble of supporting characters are all lovable. The book takes awhile to establish the plot, but I didn't mind because it tells an interesting story as Daisy chronicles her adventures in Paris, at the chateau, and even exploring the Parisian fashion scene with her best friend, Lucia. While the events feel somewhat far-fetched at times, that's par for the course for a middle grades novel- the events have to be exceptional to be exciting! This book has some awkward use of Gen Z slang and sometimes goes into too much detail (I don't need the exact street directions to every place Daisy goes). However, it didn't detract too much from my enjoyment. This book was definitely a page turner and I finished it quickly.
I hadn't read the first two titles in this series before reading this book, but for the most part I didn't need to. Save for a few references to events in the first two books, this book can be easily understood as a standalone. I would be interested to read the first two books in the series. This is a fine choice for middle-grades readers and I would recommend it.
Thank you to J.T. Allen and Sumus Press for the free eARC of this book, which I received on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Thirteen-year old Daisy Tannenbaum, an American girl living in Paris and homeschooling with her Aunt Mill, takes a break from city life and spends two weeks staying in a remote French chateau with her aunt's friend, Felix. Among the historic items at the chateau is a famous replica of the Mona Lisa that was used as a decoy in WWII, and a dramatic series of events kicks off with Daisy and the Mona Lisa at the center. I won't say much more because I feel the official synopsis gives away too much.
Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa was a fun read! Daisy is a smart, resourceful, clever protagonist and the ensemble of supporting characters are all lovable. The book takes awhile to establish the plot, but I didn't mind because it tells an interesting story as Daisy chronicles her adventures in Paris, at the chateau, and even exploring the Parisian fashion scene with her best friend, Lucia. While the events feel somewhat far-fetched at times, that's par for the course for a middle grades novel- the events have to be exceptional to be exciting! This book has some awkward use of Gen Z slang and sometimes goes into too much detail (I don't need the exact street directions to every place Daisy goes). However, it didn't detract too much from my enjoyment. This book was definitely a page turner and I finished it quickly.
I hadn't read the first two titles in this series before reading this book, but for the most part I didn't need to. Save for a few references to events in the first two books, this book can be easily understood as a standalone. I would be interested to read the first two books in the series. This is a fine choice for middle-grades readers and I would recommend it.
Thank you to J.T. Allen and Sumus Press for the free eARC of this book, which I received on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2022
What worked:
The author deftly paints pictures of France and captures its uniqueness as Daisy moves about Paris and other parts of the country. She’s able to understand most of the language spoken there and enjoys the variety of foods offered. Narrow streets near her aunt’s apartment twist and intersect like a maze but life at Felix’s chateau is quite different. His castle-like home, surrounded by a moat, sits amid beautiful countryside where internet and cellphone service are lacking. Serene walks into town are a stark contrast to crowded excursions through Paris, including jam-packed visitors waiting to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre. Daisy’s best friend Lizzie is a newly-discovered model and her presence and activities promote the fashion culture associated with Paris.
The first half of the book doesn’t present a conflict for Daisy to resolve but ample clues are given to indicate something is happening behind the scenes. Daisy senses she’s being followed during one of her visits to the town near Felix’s chateau. She finds a gate open and pigs outside the walls even though she’s certain the gate was closed when she left. She thinks she sees a ghost in a mirror while stepping into the hall during the night. Felix goes through boxes and boxes of papers, burning much of what is found, but giving Daisy vague responses when she wonders why they’re doing it. He tells of spies during World War II and how Resistance fighters and secret Hitler supporters lived beside each other as neighbors, sometimes within the same family. Daisy hears her aunt arguing on the phone with Felix about getting Daisy involved. Involved in what?
A mystery surrounds the famous Mona Lisa painting, known worldwide and perhaps worth a billion dollars. Hitler was known to steal famous artwork during WWII so countries commissioned fake replicas to be created to help the real paintings remain hidden from the Nazis. The plot includes interesting anecdotes about these efforts and it focuses on the existence of “The Three Sisters”. Two nearly perfect copies of the Mona Lisa were carefully and meticulously crafted, including cracks in the picture and canvas. Daisy’s aunt and Felix were spies for the Resistance so general tales of covert operations are included in the plot with the main focus being on the Mona Lisa.
What didn’t work as well:
The story is set in Paris so the author blends French words and sentences into the narrative. Most of the French can be understood through explanations or context but sometimes the meaning is not as clear. French vocabulary helps enhance the setting’s atmosphere, but it might have been used less since all the main characters speak English. A glossary of French terms can be found at the back of the book but that’s only helpful if readers know it exists. The story can still be easily understood and enjoyed so don’t let my thoughts deter you from reading.
The Final Verdict:
Despite being the third book in the series, this one can be read independently of the previous two, as I’ve done. Daisy has obviously had past experience solving mysteries and this one develops quite slowly. There are tense moments but the plot doesn’t reach a suspenseful climax. Overall, it’s still an entertaining mystery and I recommend you give it a shot.
The author deftly paints pictures of France and captures its uniqueness as Daisy moves about Paris and other parts of the country. She’s able to understand most of the language spoken there and enjoys the variety of foods offered. Narrow streets near her aunt’s apartment twist and intersect like a maze but life at Felix’s chateau is quite different. His castle-like home, surrounded by a moat, sits amid beautiful countryside where internet and cellphone service are lacking. Serene walks into town are a stark contrast to crowded excursions through Paris, including jam-packed visitors waiting to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre. Daisy’s best friend Lizzie is a newly-discovered model and her presence and activities promote the fashion culture associated with Paris.
The first half of the book doesn’t present a conflict for Daisy to resolve but ample clues are given to indicate something is happening behind the scenes. Daisy senses she’s being followed during one of her visits to the town near Felix’s chateau. She finds a gate open and pigs outside the walls even though she’s certain the gate was closed when she left. She thinks she sees a ghost in a mirror while stepping into the hall during the night. Felix goes through boxes and boxes of papers, burning much of what is found, but giving Daisy vague responses when she wonders why they’re doing it. He tells of spies during World War II and how Resistance fighters and secret Hitler supporters lived beside each other as neighbors, sometimes within the same family. Daisy hears her aunt arguing on the phone with Felix about getting Daisy involved. Involved in what?
A mystery surrounds the famous Mona Lisa painting, known worldwide and perhaps worth a billion dollars. Hitler was known to steal famous artwork during WWII so countries commissioned fake replicas to be created to help the real paintings remain hidden from the Nazis. The plot includes interesting anecdotes about these efforts and it focuses on the existence of “The Three Sisters”. Two nearly perfect copies of the Mona Lisa were carefully and meticulously crafted, including cracks in the picture and canvas. Daisy’s aunt and Felix were spies for the Resistance so general tales of covert operations are included in the plot with the main focus being on the Mona Lisa.
What didn’t work as well:
The story is set in Paris so the author blends French words and sentences into the narrative. Most of the French can be understood through explanations or context but sometimes the meaning is not as clear. French vocabulary helps enhance the setting’s atmosphere, but it might have been used less since all the main characters speak English. A glossary of French terms can be found at the back of the book but that’s only helpful if readers know it exists. The story can still be easily understood and enjoyed so don’t let my thoughts deter you from reading.
The Final Verdict:
Despite being the third book in the series, this one can be read independently of the previous two, as I’ve done. Daisy has obviously had past experience solving mysteries and this one develops quite slowly. There are tense moments but the plot doesn’t reach a suspenseful climax. Overall, it’s still an entertaining mystery and I recommend you give it a shot.
October 10, 2022
Living with her Aunt Mill in Paris is not as terrible as twelve-year-old Daisy Tannenbaum first expects, especially thanks to the fact that she has escaped the bullying and unpleasantness that was commonplace at her school back in the United States. Before long, though, Aunt Mill must go away for a short time; thus, Daisy is left in the care of Aunt Mill’s friend Felix—who happens to own a château a couple of hours outside of Paris. While there, Daisy helps Felix organize some of his affairs, learns fascinating World War II history, and becomes involved in family secrets she never anticipated. Utilizing both her bravery and an excellent collection of friends, Daisy must investigate the mystery in which she has landed before she gets framed for a crime she did not commit.
This book has an unexpected charm that echoes both The Da Vinci Code and a cozy French mystery, and it is designed for a middle grade audience. Though Daisy is only twelve years old, she exhibits much more independence than American youth of the same age, traveling around Paris by herself and being primarily on her own during the day. French language and culture are also included in the narrative, enriching it for readers who are comfortable with these elements. While most of the French is translated in one way or another, no pronunciation guide is offered and readers will need to be familiar with French to absorb the full intent of the novel. However, an extensive glossary at the end helps with additional translations as necessary for those who require that assistance.
The third in its series, this book centers on Daisy after she has already had two misadventures in previous installments. While this book does stand on its own, readers familiar with the other two stories will appreciate references made within this novel. At the end of the book, the narrative is left open to another addition, which leaves fans of the Daisy Tannenbaum series with the promise of a future story. Rich with mystery and family secrets, this book has an unexpected premise that will keep readers engaged while they learn about both World War II history and French culture in the modern day. This is a compelling story for mature and worldly middle grade readers.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.
This book has an unexpected charm that echoes both The Da Vinci Code and a cozy French mystery, and it is designed for a middle grade audience. Though Daisy is only twelve years old, she exhibits much more independence than American youth of the same age, traveling around Paris by herself and being primarily on her own during the day. French language and culture are also included in the narrative, enriching it for readers who are comfortable with these elements. While most of the French is translated in one way or another, no pronunciation guide is offered and readers will need to be familiar with French to absorb the full intent of the novel. However, an extensive glossary at the end helps with additional translations as necessary for those who require that assistance.
The third in its series, this book centers on Daisy after she has already had two misadventures in previous installments. While this book does stand on its own, readers familiar with the other two stories will appreciate references made within this novel. At the end of the book, the narrative is left open to another addition, which leaves fans of the Daisy Tannenbaum series with the promise of a future story. Rich with mystery and family secrets, this book has an unexpected premise that will keep readers engaged while they learn about both World War II history and French culture in the modern day. This is a compelling story for mature and worldly middle grade readers.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.
November 29, 2022
When Daisy is staying with her Aunt Mill in Paris, she takes a brief trip to visit to help Aunt Mill's friend Felix, a fellow former spy. Daisy stays in his old, deteriorating château to help him catalog his art collection, including one with a fascinating history. He gives her a copy of the Mona Lisa — a perfect copy, in fact. It's one of the two copies meant to fool Nazis in World War II and help protect the real work of art. Felix dies, and his family suspects Daisy of stealing the valuable painting. Daisy navigates through several adventures, including the painting being stolen and her daring adventure to get it back.
I have not read the previous books, and it did not seem necessary to have read them. Occasionally, there was a mention of sharks or other adventures that sound interesting, but nothing in the plot depended on prior knowledge.
Because the book takes place in France, there is a lot of French in the dialogue. It isn't translated, although there is a glossary in the back of the book. Because I was reading an ebook version, a glossary in the back isn't particularly useful for me. I found it frustrating to not always know what was going on and not have translations immediately available. Because all the characters speak English, there could have been less French to make it easier for readers who do not speak that language. Still, the non-translated French does create a sense of immersion into the setting of the book that adds a unique feeling to the book.
The book develops slowly, and the pacing seems to be off sometimes. The slowness is necessary to build up the story of Felix and the Mona Lisa, but it takes a while for anything exciting to happen. When it does happen, things start to happen all at once. A big part of this is because of Daisy herself, who is a smart and feisty main character who is a delight to read. The ending requires some extra suspension of disbelief, and it's a little jarring to go from a slow paced read into the action of the end.
This book reads as something as a young Dan Brown book or a beneficiary of Nancy Drew. Overall, it's a cozy mystery that tells an interesting story and showcases an interesting and loveable cast of characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy of this book to review.
I have not read the previous books, and it did not seem necessary to have read them. Occasionally, there was a mention of sharks or other adventures that sound interesting, but nothing in the plot depended on prior knowledge.
Because the book takes place in France, there is a lot of French in the dialogue. It isn't translated, although there is a glossary in the back of the book. Because I was reading an ebook version, a glossary in the back isn't particularly useful for me. I found it frustrating to not always know what was going on and not have translations immediately available. Because all the characters speak English, there could have been less French to make it easier for readers who do not speak that language. Still, the non-translated French does create a sense of immersion into the setting of the book that adds a unique feeling to the book.
The book develops slowly, and the pacing seems to be off sometimes. The slowness is necessary to build up the story of Felix and the Mona Lisa, but it takes a while for anything exciting to happen. When it does happen, things start to happen all at once. A big part of this is because of Daisy herself, who is a smart and feisty main character who is a delight to read. The ending requires some extra suspension of disbelief, and it's a little jarring to go from a slow paced read into the action of the end.
This book reads as something as a young Dan Brown book or a beneficiary of Nancy Drew. Overall, it's a cozy mystery that tells an interesting story and showcases an interesting and loveable cast of characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy of this book to review.
October 16, 2022
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Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa is the third installment of the Daisy Tannenbaum middle grade mysteries. You don’t necessarily have to have read the previous books in the series in order to read this, but there were a few curious references to Daisy killing a shark that makes me want to go back and check them out.
Okay, here’s the thing, and I’ve mentioned it before. I do not like when books have other languages in them and don’t translate. The good news is that, being in France, there’s a lot of French but Daisy translates it, but the bad part is that there’s so much of it in the beginning of the book that it was hard to get into at first. Once there’s not constant explanations, the story picks up.
I do have to say that Daisy is a rather resourceful 12-year-old who has a lot of freedom to go places and do things that I don’t think I’d give my 12-year-old while in Paris. But in that way, she reminds me a bit of Nancy Drew, who undoubtedly inspired the author, whether they knew it or not. The parental authority in Paris, Aunt Mill, is mostly absent.
Daisy is clever and resourceful and just like in Nancy Drew books, a lot of information is revealed as a way to inform readers, like about all the art the Nazis looted during World War II and the effort French art historians went to hide the Mona Lisa from Hitler and his gang. Learning about the French Resistance is a bonus that children might not realize they’re getting a history lesson. That’s always a bonus for me when I read children’s books; sneaking in real facts makes me like the book more.
Overall, this book reminds me of a children’s version of a Dan Brown book, full of action and running and chasing and thefts and danger. What kid wouldn’t love a book like that? Now I’m going to have to go back and read the first two books and find out where the shark killing comes in.
I received an eARC of this book from the author, Sumus Press, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa is the third installment of the Daisy Tannenbaum middle grade mysteries. You don’t necessarily have to have read the previous books in the series in order to read this, but there were a few curious references to Daisy killing a shark that makes me want to go back and check them out.
Okay, here’s the thing, and I’ve mentioned it before. I do not like when books have other languages in them and don’t translate. The good news is that, being in France, there’s a lot of French but Daisy translates it, but the bad part is that there’s so much of it in the beginning of the book that it was hard to get into at first. Once there’s not constant explanations, the story picks up.
I do have to say that Daisy is a rather resourceful 12-year-old who has a lot of freedom to go places and do things that I don’t think I’d give my 12-year-old while in Paris. But in that way, she reminds me a bit of Nancy Drew, who undoubtedly inspired the author, whether they knew it or not. The parental authority in Paris, Aunt Mill, is mostly absent.
Daisy is clever and resourceful and just like in Nancy Drew books, a lot of information is revealed as a way to inform readers, like about all the art the Nazis looted during World War II and the effort French art historians went to hide the Mona Lisa from Hitler and his gang. Learning about the French Resistance is a bonus that children might not realize they’re getting a history lesson. That’s always a bonus for me when I read children’s books; sneaking in real facts makes me like the book more.
Overall, this book reminds me of a children’s version of a Dan Brown book, full of action and running and chasing and thefts and danger. What kid wouldn’t love a book like that? Now I’m going to have to go back and read the first two books and find out where the shark killing comes in.
I received an eARC of this book from the author, Sumus Press, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 11, 2022
What I Liked:
-Daisy has a vibrant, strong character voice that was fun to read.
-Allen did a great job grounding the story in Paris.
What I Struggled With:
- SLIGHT SPOILER: The climax, when Daisy gets the Mona Lisa back, stretched my suspension of disbelief just a little too much. It seemed a little too easy and unrealistic. It didn't ruin the novel, but it did let me down a little.
Other:
-I would love to listen to this book as an audiobook. Allen sprinkled French all throughout the novel, really helping give it a Parisian setting--not so much that you can't understand it, though. And while I know a little French, I would love to listen to a narrator who speaks French read Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa. It would perfect the French flair of the novel.
-I do feel like the blurb is the tinniest bit misleading. While Daisy does end up doing some outwitting and finds herself in a chase after Mona, those elements aren't super strong until pretty far into the novel. However, it didn't bother me that the plot was a little different than I thought it was going to be.
Overall:
I read Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa without having read the other books in the series. And while I could tell there was some information I didn't know, the author did a great job of making the book be able to stand on its own while being in a series. I'm actually a little curious about the other two books now.
Overall, Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa is a fun middle-grade novel.
Cautions: three blasphemies; two instances of coarse language; brief mentions of smoking and drinking *
*I didn't keep track of caution while reading Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa, so I probably missed some.
(I received an eARC through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
-Daisy has a vibrant, strong character voice that was fun to read.
-Allen did a great job grounding the story in Paris.
What I Struggled With:
- SLIGHT SPOILER: The climax, when Daisy gets the Mona Lisa back, stretched my suspension of disbelief just a little too much. It seemed a little too easy and unrealistic. It didn't ruin the novel, but it did let me down a little.
Other:
-I would love to listen to this book as an audiobook. Allen sprinkled French all throughout the novel, really helping give it a Parisian setting--not so much that you can't understand it, though. And while I know a little French, I would love to listen to a narrator who speaks French read Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa. It would perfect the French flair of the novel.
-I do feel like the blurb is the tinniest bit misleading. While Daisy does end up doing some outwitting and finds herself in a chase after Mona, those elements aren't super strong until pretty far into the novel. However, it didn't bother me that the plot was a little different than I thought it was going to be.
Overall:
I read Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa without having read the other books in the series. And while I could tell there was some information I didn't know, the author did a great job of making the book be able to stand on its own while being in a series. I'm actually a little curious about the other two books now.
Overall, Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa is a fun middle-grade novel.
Cautions: three blasphemies; two instances of coarse language; brief mentions of smoking and drinking *
*I didn't keep track of caution while reading Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa, so I probably missed some.
(I received an eARC through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
October 8, 2022
Meet our plucky heroine, Miss Daisy Tannenbaum, almost thirteen, precocious as ever, and homeschooling in Paris with her Aunt Millicent.
Daisy takes a break from the City of Light and her dreaded math homework, and heads to a rambling château in the Loire Valley to help her Aunt Mill’s friend, former-spy Felix, catalog his art collection. But when Daisy receives a copy of the Mona Lisa as a thank you, strange things start to happen. This Mona is not just any copy, it’s one of two perfect forgeries created to fool the Nazis during their hunt for the real Mona Lisa during WWII. Daisy’s best friend from the states, Lucia, a newly minted teen model, and in Paris to audition for the spring runway shows, thinks Daisy’s Mona is the real one. Real or not, it’s worth a fortune, and when Felix suddenly dies, his family accuses Daisy of stealing it. Our plucky heroine must navigate a world of crazy, scheming, often criminal adults, not to mention traveling ghosts, ginormous pigs, testy lawyers, former spies, and obnoxious fashionistas, as she finds herself in a harrowing chase in Paris while trying to outwit them all to keep her beloved Mona.
Daisy is caught up in the ring of intended theft of a painting that is a copy made in the 1920's of Mona Lisa.
This book is full of intrigue and attempted theft.
It is meant for the preteen and teen audience.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Daisy takes a break from the City of Light and her dreaded math homework, and heads to a rambling château in the Loire Valley to help her Aunt Mill’s friend, former-spy Felix, catalog his art collection. But when Daisy receives a copy of the Mona Lisa as a thank you, strange things start to happen. This Mona is not just any copy, it’s one of two perfect forgeries created to fool the Nazis during their hunt for the real Mona Lisa during WWII. Daisy’s best friend from the states, Lucia, a newly minted teen model, and in Paris to audition for the spring runway shows, thinks Daisy’s Mona is the real one. Real or not, it’s worth a fortune, and when Felix suddenly dies, his family accuses Daisy of stealing it. Our plucky heroine must navigate a world of crazy, scheming, often criminal adults, not to mention traveling ghosts, ginormous pigs, testy lawyers, former spies, and obnoxious fashionistas, as she finds herself in a harrowing chase in Paris while trying to outwit them all to keep her beloved Mona.
Daisy is caught up in the ring of intended theft of a painting that is a copy made in the 1920's of Mona Lisa.
This book is full of intrigue and attempted theft.
It is meant for the preteen and teen audience.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
April 2, 2023
This was a gem of book. My goal this year is read more middle grade stories. I love the Newbery Medal winners, and there is so much out there to delve into.
This was a fabulous choice for me.
I enjoyed the setting very much (I took years of French in high school and middle school, so this would be fun for kids in that range studying languages). The author throws in so much information and fun facts without being overwhelming. I learned a little bit more about the Mona Lisa's history and art in general.
This would also be a great group read at that age. Or a good story to read with a young children. Mystery, trouble, adventure, fun. Gives me some Sammy Keyes mystery vibes. BIG FAN
There were only a couple things that "threw" me. When the book began it felt as if the main character was much older, as in high school. Although this lessened after the first 2-3 chapters. And second, there was lots of talk of champagne/drinking. The setting is in France. But I tend to think of those middle grade ages not just 7-8th grade (pre-high schoolers)...but also those avid readers that are in grades 4-6. And while I can understand it being mentioned once, the frequency with which it is tossed in with the adults in the story isn't really necessary to setting atmosphere/tone/location.
I did start this series on this book; which may have been why the character felt older to me starting; as the author jumped right in (which is a GOOD thing, not enough authors do this). But this will make this a - "best read in order" type of book for your sheer enjoyment.
And a special thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
This was a fabulous choice for me.
I enjoyed the setting very much (I took years of French in high school and middle school, so this would be fun for kids in that range studying languages). The author throws in so much information and fun facts without being overwhelming. I learned a little bit more about the Mona Lisa's history and art in general.
This would also be a great group read at that age. Or a good story to read with a young children. Mystery, trouble, adventure, fun. Gives me some Sammy Keyes mystery vibes. BIG FAN
There were only a couple things that "threw" me. When the book began it felt as if the main character was much older, as in high school. Although this lessened after the first 2-3 chapters. And second, there was lots of talk of champagne/drinking. The setting is in France. But I tend to think of those middle grade ages not just 7-8th grade (pre-high schoolers)...but also those avid readers that are in grades 4-6. And while I can understand it being mentioned once, the frequency with which it is tossed in with the adults in the story isn't really necessary to setting atmosphere/tone/location.
I did start this series on this book; which may have been why the character felt older to me starting; as the author jumped right in (which is a GOOD thing, not enough authors do this). But this will make this a - "best read in order" type of book for your sheer enjoyment.
And a special thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
September 25, 2022
I hadn't heard of this series before, nor read any of the first few books but that didn't entirely matter as this book was fine as a stand alone read. To be honest, at first it was very overwhelming. The amount of talk about spies and heists made you wonder what type of book this was and the slang that Daisy used took a bit to get used to. Having read the earlier books may have helped with that. I kept going though, and I'm glad that I did as it turned out to be a delightful read. The host of characters were heartwarming and the book was humourous. The genre lends itself to be a bit far fetched at times but the moral of the story was always there to fall back on. The sheer amount of French took a bit to read but it was entertaining as well and I wish I had known about the glossary at the back to begin with. Overall, it was something that I would read the next books of and I'm sure that young adults would be delighted with it too. Thanks to the author and Netgalley for the temporary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
November 2, 2022
Can Daisy solve the puzzle of the Missing Mona Lisa?
Twelve year old Daisy is in Paris, living with her Aunt Mill. She spends some time with Felix helping him clean out a collection of items he has, and one of those items happens to be a replica of the Mona Lisa…or is it? Lol, I don’t want to give too much away, since this is a mystery and all. Reading Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa reminded me of my youth and reading a Nancy Drew book! I enjoyed accompanying Daisy in her newest adventure with friends by her side. I appreciate how self sufficient Daisy is, traveling Paris by herself, taking the metro, and even getting dinner on her own. If you haven’t read the books yet, this can be read as a stand-alone, but I do recommend reading the full series but a better comprehension of the book. All in all, a great read!
I received a free copy of this book from the author. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
Twelve year old Daisy is in Paris, living with her Aunt Mill. She spends some time with Felix helping him clean out a collection of items he has, and one of those items happens to be a replica of the Mona Lisa…or is it? Lol, I don’t want to give too much away, since this is a mystery and all. Reading Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa reminded me of my youth and reading a Nancy Drew book! I enjoyed accompanying Daisy in her newest adventure with friends by her side. I appreciate how self sufficient Daisy is, traveling Paris by herself, taking the metro, and even getting dinner on her own. If you haven’t read the books yet, this can be read as a stand-alone, but I do recommend reading the full series but a better comprehension of the book. All in all, a great read!
I received a free copy of this book from the author. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
November 26, 2022
Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa had a really fun setting in Paris and the main character, Daisy, was a likeable, smart character whose knack for getting herself into predicaments made the story a fun read. I had not read the first two books prior to this one, but the book provided enough background information so that you could follow along without having to have read them (and intrigued me about going back to read about some of Daisy's earlier adventures). The author sprinkled French phrases throughout the book - while most of it could be figured out through the context used or clues in the story, my high school French made it a bit easier to follow along. The mystery had some fascinating twists and turn and a few parts that were a little bit of stretch but still fun. Overall, I thought the book was fun and I would read the prior ones in the series.
May 26, 2024
Thank you to the author, J.T. Allen, for a gifted copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reading this book reminds me how enjoyable mystery adventures can be. As the fast-paced narrative moves nimbly from Paris to a château in the Loire Valley and then toward Switzerland, I found myself turning page after page waiting with bated breath. Will Daisy achieve what she set out to do and get her Mona back?
I’d recommend Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa to fellow Francophiles and anyone who enjoys books with a little adventure, art, fashion, history, and mystery. Readers of all ages are sure to be inspired by Daisy’s determination, focus, and resourcefulness.
Read my full review on my Francophile blog: https://bonjourdarlene.com/2022/11/12...
Reading this book reminds me how enjoyable mystery adventures can be. As the fast-paced narrative moves nimbly from Paris to a château in the Loire Valley and then toward Switzerland, I found myself turning page after page waiting with bated breath. Will Daisy achieve what she set out to do and get her Mona back?
I’d recommend Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa to fellow Francophiles and anyone who enjoys books with a little adventure, art, fashion, history, and mystery. Readers of all ages are sure to be inspired by Daisy’s determination, focus, and resourcefulness.
Read my full review on my Francophile blog: https://bonjourdarlene.com/2022/11/12...
March 7, 2024
Art heist meets Parisian hijinks in Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa by J.T. Allen.
Daisy Tannenbaum is 13 and staying with her aunt, who used to be a spy, in Paris. After some past adventures—this book is the third in a series—Daisy has become a bit of an amateur sleuth. When she’s gifted a copy of the Mona Lisa that was used to help fool the Nazis during WWII and it then goes missing, she and her friends jump into action to solve the mystery and regain the still-valuable art copy.
This book was a fun middle-grade read, though I found the peppering of slang used throughout off putting. The use of French throughout was explained upfront and was cleverly translated in the text, but the American slang, such as “cray-cray” and “peeps,” was not used consistently, plus these are not slang terms that my own middle-grade kids actually used, so felt contrived. It read like an adult attempting to sporadically sound like a tween. The story arc itself was fine but felt overly simplified. There’s so much that could have been explored more to increase the suspense. I wanted more from the art heist/rescue storyline.
Daisy Tannenbaum is 13 and staying with her aunt, who used to be a spy, in Paris. After some past adventures—this book is the third in a series—Daisy has become a bit of an amateur sleuth. When she’s gifted a copy of the Mona Lisa that was used to help fool the Nazis during WWII and it then goes missing, she and her friends jump into action to solve the mystery and regain the still-valuable art copy.
This book was a fun middle-grade read, though I found the peppering of slang used throughout off putting. The use of French throughout was explained upfront and was cleverly translated in the text, but the American slang, such as “cray-cray” and “peeps,” was not used consistently, plus these are not slang terms that my own middle-grade kids actually used, so felt contrived. It read like an adult attempting to sporadically sound like a tween. The story arc itself was fine but felt overly simplified. There’s so much that could have been explored more to increase the suspense. I wanted more from the art heist/rescue storyline.
November 2, 2022
3 1/2 stars. A fun and exciting mystery starring Daisy, a teenage American young woman, in Paris who gets involved with a fake Mona Lisa, tales of the WWII French Resistance keeping the Mona Lisa away from German looters, and a very modern art theft ring. Daisy is a decent and a very relatable young woman who has a knack for trouble. The trouble definitely keeps things interesting. At the same time, her actions and the events are the realm of feasible. You don't read it and roll your eyes thinking like that could never happen.
This is a part of a series that I will look to read more of.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
This is a part of a series that I will look to read more of.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
April 11, 2023
I accessed a digital review copy of this book from the publisher.
This book follows Daisy as she deals with the mysteries and issues surrounding a forged Mona Lisa. Daisy spends most of her time in Paris with her Aunt Mill and is helped by her friends.
This was my first introduction to Daisy.
The book was quick and easy and the mystery was easy and fun. The author is detailed in their description of Daisy's surroundings.
One drawback was the endless directions included. I'm sure they are correct, however, they just bog down the story and I ended up skimming over them and skipping them most of the time. If they were included here and there only, it would have been better. There were also a lot of untranslated long strings of French. If they were shortened to short phrases and a word or two with translations by Daisy, then it would have been better. Despite this, the book was good and I can't wait to read more about Daisy.
This book follows Daisy as she deals with the mysteries and issues surrounding a forged Mona Lisa. Daisy spends most of her time in Paris with her Aunt Mill and is helped by her friends.
This was my first introduction to Daisy.
The book was quick and easy and the mystery was easy and fun. The author is detailed in their description of Daisy's surroundings.
One drawback was the endless directions included. I'm sure they are correct, however, they just bog down the story and I ended up skimming over them and skipping them most of the time. If they were included here and there only, it would have been better. There were also a lot of untranslated long strings of French. If they were shortened to short phrases and a word or two with translations by Daisy, then it would have been better. Despite this, the book was good and I can't wait to read more about Daisy.
February 1, 2023
Very interesting read! I loved reading Daisy's story with her knack for finding adventure there's never a full moment. Great setting and description and a cast full of badass women. Safe to say it's a YA James Bond with a female protagonist. Can't wait to see what Daisy gets up to next. Gorgeous cover too!
March 3, 2023
I am new to this series so I was a little behind some others, but quickly became entranced by the quick and precocious mc and her strange and fascinating family. I now need to read a litlle more about how this all came about. Daisy is a fun character without being obnoxious. Why do so many people confuse obnoxious and precocious? You don’t need to be both.
December 1, 2023
Starts as a quiet introspective book and ends with crazy investigation, with some Paris high fashion between. Fun. Maybe more of a 3.5 book.
Good for later middle grades, maybe avid reader 3rd graders.
Good for later middle grades, maybe avid reader 3rd graders.
Want to read
September 15, 2022Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
November 2, 2022
I have to admit I rarely read young YA books, but in this case, it didn't matter. Daisy, the main character of this delightful novel, is a precocious and smart twelve-year-old, who keeps everybody on their toes, including the reader. Most of the time, I forgot the protagonist is still a preteen as she navigates around Paris.
I love Paris and was elated to join Daisy on her adventure. The author does a fantastic job integrating French into the novel and, at the same time, effortlessly switches to the English translation.
This is the third book of the series. Except for a couple of references regarding the earlier books, the book reads like a standalone.
I love Paris and was elated to join Daisy on her adventure. The author does a fantastic job integrating French into the novel and, at the same time, effortlessly switches to the English translation.
This is the third book of the series. Except for a couple of references regarding the earlier books, the book reads like a standalone.
December 4, 2022
Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa is a fun reading with girl empowerment mc!
This book was good as a stand-alone read as i just heard of this series or read any of the prior few novels. The quantity of discourse about heists and spies was quite unhinged and took sometimes getting used to Daisy's personality but it was a joy and a lovely book! The characters was endearing and the plot is unpredictable as the humor in this story.
As she travels to Paris and other regions of France, the author skillfully draws a picture of France and captures its distinctiveness as i dive into it and travel more. I love Daisy character and how she loves to divine the cuisine and how she can understand the majority of the language spoken there. I will read more about daisy adventure in the future too! Thanks netgalley for the e-arc! I appreciate it so much
This book was good as a stand-alone read as i just heard of this series or read any of the prior few novels. The quantity of discourse about heists and spies was quite unhinged and took sometimes getting used to Daisy's personality but it was a joy and a lovely book! The characters was endearing and the plot is unpredictable as the humor in this story.
As she travels to Paris and other regions of France, the author skillfully draws a picture of France and captures its distinctiveness as i dive into it and travel more. I love Daisy character and how she loves to divine the cuisine and how she can understand the majority of the language spoken there. I will read more about daisy adventure in the future too! Thanks netgalley for the e-arc! I appreciate it so much
August 13, 2023
Daisy just keeps finding ways to get into (fun) trouble. This is book three of Daisy's adventures. This is a stand alone but it is highly recommended to read the first two installments also. Great adventure and fun characters. This is great fun for middle grade readers but as an adult I loved it also. Highly recommended.
June 3, 2023
Daisy and the Missing Mona Lisa
by J.T. Allen
#NetGalley #MiddleGradeMarch
This is book 3 in the Daisy Tannenbaum series. The story is set in Paris where Daisy is visiting her Aunt Mill for spring break. Twelve year old Daisy helps out Aunt Mill's friend Felix, with his art collection and he gifts her a painting of the Mona Lisa.
Said painting disappears and the mystery begins.
I liked Daisy and could relate as an American how difficult it would be to navigate getting around in the city since not everything is written out in English.
I liked Daisy's friend Lucia, the American teen model who was in Paris and helps Daisy out with the mystery.
I enjoyed the mystery, was grateful for the glossary in the back of the story, and would recommend this book to middle graders or anyone who enjoys middle grade mysteries.
I had not read the earlier books in the series but it did not hamper my enjoyment of this book.
thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity to read and honestly review this e arc.
recommended 3 1/2 ****
by J.T. Allen
#NetGalley #MiddleGradeMarch
This is book 3 in the Daisy Tannenbaum series. The story is set in Paris where Daisy is visiting her Aunt Mill for spring break. Twelve year old Daisy helps out Aunt Mill's friend Felix, with his art collection and he gifts her a painting of the Mona Lisa.
Said painting disappears and the mystery begins.
I liked Daisy and could relate as an American how difficult it would be to navigate getting around in the city since not everything is written out in English.
I liked Daisy's friend Lucia, the American teen model who was in Paris and helps Daisy out with the mystery.
I enjoyed the mystery, was grateful for the glossary in the back of the story, and would recommend this book to middle graders or anyone who enjoys middle grade mysteries.
I had not read the earlier books in the series but it did not hamper my enjoyment of this book.
thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity to read and honestly review this e arc.
recommended 3 1/2 ****
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