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Tom's Chalk Chase
by My Book Hub Team
An illustrated mystery book for ages 6-9. Read the first pages free, then join to read it all.
Genre: mystery
For ages 6-9
A peek inside
Tom swept the cobblestones of the lively London market. Horse carts rattled by and gas lamps glowed through the morning mist. He tugged his patched cap low and stamped his worn boots. Suddenly a shout rang out from the watchmaker's stall. Old Mr. Briggs waved his arms. My silver pocket watch is missing! It must be found before the royal parade begins! Tom's heart jumped. A real mystery right here! He loved puzzles far more than sweeping dust. Nearby, bright-eyed Elsie sold flowers from her patched shawl stall. She leaned close and whispered, Did you hear that, Tom? Tom nodded hard. Then something white and dusty caught his eye on the stones beside the stall.
Tom crouched low and brushed the dust aside. A small chalk arrow pointed down the crowded lane. Look, Elsie! he cried. Someone left a clue! Elsie hurried over, her shawl flapping. Her eyes sparkled. Chalk marks on the cobbles? That is clever! Together they followed the arrow past baskets of apples and piles of cloth. A horse snorted and stamped as they slipped by. Tom felt a thrill race through him. Who would steal a silver watch and then leave chalk signs? Elsie clutched a bunch of violets tight. We must hurry, Tom. The parade starts soon and the streets will fill with people. Tom grinned his cheekiest grin. Then we better not waste a minute!
