09. Cracking the Case

Kids can do anything when they believe in themselves, especially when others believe in them, too. The two detectives in these middle grade titles have a few things in common: they both have Down syndrome, and a knack for solving mysteries. Featuring endearing twelve-year-old detective Mizzy, A Skeleton in the Closet is the first book in The Mizzy Mysteries from Claire Hatcher-Smith, a speech and language pathologist who has worked with children with Down syndrome for thirty-five years. In Wesley King’s Benny on the Case, Benny is bullied for having Mosaic Down syndrome, but he won’t let that stop him from catching a thief. The authors will share why they write for and about kids who are different in this fun and enlightening event. Moderated by Mark Kershaw. Grades 4–7.

Themes: Middle-grade fiction, creative writing, Down syndrome, neurodivergence, mystery
Curriculum Connections: English Language Arts 4-9, Physical and Health Education 4-7

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Event Participants:

Claire Hatcher-Smith

CLAIRE HATCHER-SMITH is a speech language pathologist who has worked with children with Down syndrome for thirty-five years. Her writing has previously been longlisted in the Mslexia Children's Novel Competition. Originally from Kent in the UK, she currently lives on Vancouver Island. A Skeleton in the Closet is her debut novel.

Mark Kershaw

MARK SEÁN KERSHAW is a writer and arts educator who works predominantly with young people. He has created, directed and choreographed interdisciplinary theatre works for both children and adults. He has previously worked in both radio and film and his short fiction appears in two anthologies for Arsenal Pulp Press. He is a regular contributor to The Miramichi Review.

Wesley King

WESLEY KING is the award-winning author of over a dozen novels for young readers, including OCDaniel, Sara and the Search for Normal, and the bestselling Wizenard series with Kobe Bryant. His books have earned critical acclaim and multiple awards. He currently lives and writes in Newfoundland.