The Novel Page: “Nancy Drew Mystery Stories: The Clue of the Black Keys” by Carolyn Keene 

(It is now known that this story was written by ghostwriters Wilhelmina Rankin and Harriet Stratemeyer Adams under the pseudonym Carolyn Keene)

I thought it would be interesting to revisit a childhood favorite of mine to kick off the official spooky season. 

I read all of these mysteries when I was in the fourth grade and had acquired a few unrevised original copies from 1951. My purpose this time was to see whether I would recommend them to children today. 

Nancy Drew is approached by a young college professor, Terry Scott, who asks for her help with a missing person case and a possible treasure. This story is filled with action, sleuthing, and young adult crushes. 

Reading it now, I do think the target demographic is fourth through sixth grades. The original versions included challenging vocabulary intended to encourage young readers to look up unfamiliar words. 

Sadly, I am not sure these books would resonate with many children amid today’s pressures and distractions. Their style and atmosphere feel dated, although that glimpse into another time could appeal to some young readers. 

Revisiting Nancy Drew was interesting, but these mysteries may not capture every child’s imagination the way they once captured mine.