Murder at Penguin Ranch

A young girl must unmask a murderer at a penguin research ranch in Antarctica to prove her mother’s innocence in this thrilling mystery from the author of The Amelia Six.

Twelve-year-old Nova Hoffman is going on the trip of a lifetime to Antarctica! Her scientist mom works there studying penguins. Nova loves penguins but hates that her mom is gone for so many months out of the year. Her secret goal for the visit is to convince Mom to come home. Luckily, Nova’s best friend, Emilee, will be there for emotional support—and to share in the penguin cuteness. But shortly after the girls arrive at Penguin Ranch, Mom’s assistant dies under mysterious circumstances. Now, Nova’s mom is a prime suspect, and her research grant is at risk of being frozen…for good.

To clear her mom’s name, Nova must put aside her mixed feelings about Mom’s work. With help from Emilee and their new friend, Alex, Nova begins an investigation that takes them away from their cozy station and across the ice to uncover who’s responsible. But Antarctica is a very dangerous place—and with a murderer on the loose, no one is safe.

Kristin L. Gray is the author of middle grade novels Vilonia Beebe Takes Charge, The Amelia Six, and Murder at Penguin Ranch. Kristin is also the author of two picture books: Koala Is Not a Bear, illustrated by Rachel McAlister, and Rover Throws a Party, illustrated by Scott Magoon. A fan of mysteries and science, she adores writing twisty, fact-filled books for curious kids. Gray lives in northwest Arkansas and hopes to return to Antarctica one day. For book research, of course. Find her online at KristinLGray.com.