The Street Art Mystery

About this book

Friends Margot, Wesley and Josephine have the perfect weekend planned for the end of the summer holidays before they begin secondary school. They are staying in West London with Margot’s mum and her new boyfriend Teddy and can’t wait to attend Notting Hill Carnival. But, when Teddy is found dead, their cultural plans are thrown out of the window. Clues start appearing in the form of bold graffiti street art, and the group of friends set out to uncover who is behind the murals and why – even if the adults won’t listen. 

Their investigation leads them on an exhilarating hunt for the killer around West London through busy markets, hidden alleyways, skate parks, tower blocks, and eventually to Notting Hill Carnival, with each discovered art puzzle pulling them deeper into the mystery. Can they piece together the evidence in time? 

As with her other work, Jackson’s storytelling shines with authenticity, capturing the sights, sounds and complexities of the urban setting in a way that feels real and exhilarating. The children’s dialogue is especially compelling, and readers are plunged headlong into adventure and intrigue from the outset of the story.

Alongside the excitement of the clues and puzzles this book also explores coming‑of‑age themes as Margot expresses her anxiety about moving away from her friends. The context of Notting Hill Carnival adds a cultural richness and energy to the unfolding mystery and really celebrates community and creativity. Superb! 

About the author