The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel

(Paperback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Based on the Peabody Awardwinning podcast, this tech-filled adventure series pits intrepid Mars Patel and his outcast friends against a brilliant, enigmatic billionaire as they race to figure out why kids are disappearing from their school.

Mars Patels friend Aurora has disappeared! His teachers are clueless. His mom is stressed out about her jobs. But Mars refuses to give upafter all, his own dad disappeared when Mars was a toddler, before he and Ma moved to Puget Sound from India. Luckily, Mars has a group of loyal friends eager to helpsmart Toothpick, strong and stylish JP, and maybe-telepathic Caddie. The clues seem to point toward eccentric tech genius (and Marss hero) Oliver Pruitt, whose popular podcast now seems to be commenting on their quest! But when the friends investigate Pruitts mysterious, elite school, nothing is as it seemsand anyone could be deceiving them. Slick science, corporate conspiracies, and an endearingly nerdy protagonist make this first book in the series a fresh, exciting sci-fi adventure.

Reviews

Interweaving podcast transcripts, instant message threads, emails and newspaper stories, Chari deftly constructs a mystery that is strong in both plot and character. Marss friend group is as diverse as their unique abilities, and their teamwork and loyalty are unshakable. Based on the Peabody Awardwinning podcast, fans of James Dashners The Maze Runner and Stranger Things will clamor for more of Mars Patel.
School Library Journal (starred review)

This terrific start to a book series contains intriguing characters, conspiracy theories, customized drones, holograms and a tantalizing mystery that could be leading readers anywhere in this world... or beyond.
Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Author Bio

Sheela Chari is the author of Finding Mighty and Vanished, which was an Edgar Award finalist. She lives with her family in New York.