Nikki and the Gang (2012)

Nikki can't believe it when she's sent away from Glasgow to the Highlands to stay with eccentric Aunty Linda: no internet, no TV, not even a mobile phone reception!  The only things to do are take the dog, Tammy, on walks and read Aunty Linda's old Famous Five books.

Boring!  Even the twins who live in the nearby cottage, Orlagh and Kate, spend more time bickering with each other than they do having fun. The only vague excitement comes in the shape of a shy boy, Henry, who does odd jobs for her Aunty Linda, who at least seems to fancy Nikki a bit.

After her intial reluctance, however, Nikki starts to become fascinated by both the great outdoors and the world of the Famous Five, and before she knows it she's seeing mysteries everywhere.  What are the weird lights coming from the woods?  Who was it that attempted to burgle her Aunty Linda's house, and why?  Maybe it's just her imagination taking over, but Nikki is determined to assemble her own gang - herself, the twins, Henry and, of course, Tammy - to get to the bottom of these strange goings-on.

NIKKI AND THE GANG is a smart, engaging, modern mystery for young people, about having to rely not on the internet to save the day, but friends, books and wits.

Learn more about Alan Bisset and Mairi Campbell