Truly Tan by Jen Storer

ABC Books, 2012. ISBN: 9780733331213
Recommended for children ages 8 and up. Tan and the 'lollipops', her older sisters Emerald, Amber and Rose, are about to re-locate to the country with their parents. Following a rather eventful journey, involving an assortment of pets and dodgy removalists, the family finally spies the dead fox draped over the fence to mark their turn and arrives at their new home, only to find all of their possessions have been dumped on the front lawn. Thus begins life in the country, camping out on the verandah! Quickly the girls meet some children who live nearby and become involved in solving some mysteries, especially one pertaining to a 'ghost's' house. Fancying herself as something of a detective, Tan takes to solving the mystery, eager to follow up on any clues she is able to find.
This is an easy read for confident readers, filled with diary entries, a smattering of definitions which appear to have been taped onto the pages, Penny Pollard style, and appealing illustrations both in the form of photographs and line drawings. Tan is a likeable character, who provides some humorous observations and the family pets add to the laughs. A book about family, friendship, every-day fun and adventure, overcoming one's fears as well as providing a historic twist, this should be easily accessible to girls who enjoy a bit of mystery. Written by the author of Tensy Farlow, a title I had previously read and reviewed this book wasn't quite what I was expecting, yet I found it to be most enjoyable, nonetheless. It's far simpler, everyday story line is eminently suited to its younger audience.
Jo Schenkel