What do you think?
Rate this book
The Harlem Charade
Fans of Chasing Vermeer will love this clever mystery about art, artifice, and the power of community.
WATCHER. SHADOW. FUGITIVE. Harlem is home to all kinds of kids. Jin sees life passing her by from the window of her family's bodega. Alex wants to help the needy one shelter at a time, but can't tell anyone who she really is. Elvin's living on Harlem's cold, lonely streets, surviving on his own after his grandfather was mysteriously attacked. When these three strangers join forces to find out what happened to Elvin's grandfather, their digging leads them to an enigmatic artist whose missing masterpieces are worth a fortune-one that might save the neighborhood from development by an ambitious politician who wants to turn it into Harlem World, a ludicrous historic theme park. But if they don't find the paintings soon, nothing in their beloved neighborhood will ever be the same... In this remarkable tale of daring and danger, debut novelist Natasha Tarpley explores the way a community defines itself, the power of art to show truth, and what it really means to be home.
WATCHER. SHADOW. FUGITIVE. Harlem is home to all kinds of kids. Jin sees life passing her by from the window of her family's bodega. Alex wants to help the needy one shelter at a time, but can't tell anyone who she really is. Elvin's living on Harlem's cold, lonely streets, surviving on his own after his grandfather was mysteriously attacked. When these three strangers join forces to find out what happened to Elvin's grandfather, their digging leads them to an enigmatic artist whose missing masterpieces are worth a fortune-one that might save the neighborhood from development by an ambitious politician who wants to turn it into Harlem World, a ludicrous historic theme park. But if they don't find the paintings soon, nothing in their beloved neighborhood will ever be the same... In this remarkable tale of daring and danger, debut novelist Natasha Tarpley explores the way a community defines itself, the power of art to show truth, and what it really means to be home.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published January 31, 2017
83 people are currently reading
1102 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
February 24, 2017
Loved it. Review to come.
So. I feel as if the previous reviews have sincerely underestimated how wonderful, how significant this book is. The Harlem Charade is a mystery featuring three POC teens who rail when their neighborhood might be bulldozed to make way for an amusement park. The story also incorporates the history of 1960s Harlem artists fighting for inclusion in the mainstream art world.
Natasha Tarpley's writing is so deftly done, relating the significance of our past affecting our future without being preachy, and children of color will see themselves reflected in this book - which is a beautiful thing. I believe I would have loved this book as kid.
So. I feel as if the previous reviews have sincerely underestimated how wonderful, how significant this book is. The Harlem Charade is a mystery featuring three POC teens who rail when their neighborhood might be bulldozed to make way for an amusement park. The story also incorporates the history of 1960s Harlem artists fighting for inclusion in the mainstream art world.
Natasha Tarpley's writing is so deftly done, relating the significance of our past affecting our future without being preachy, and children of color will see themselves reflected in this book - which is a beautiful thing. I believe I would have loved this book as kid.
February 16, 2017
Fun mystery where the reader is constantly picking up new clues and having to figure out how they fit together. Also a story of unlikely friendships.
January 1, 2018
3 compelling kids of color as MCs, a fun and thrilling mystery/adventure, a tribute to Black art and culture, and an accessible take on timely issues like gentrification. A++😊
September 1, 2017
2.5 stars. The messages in this story were great - the importance of art and the preservation of culture, supporting local businesses, and helping friends and those in need. The whole "kids exploring their neighborhood and trying to solve a mystery before the evil building tycoons do" sounded interesting enough. But this just bored me. It was full of information dumps (the kids overhear things one too many times), and overall it was just clunky and slow. It was a valiant effort - you could tell the author's passion for the story and the subject matter were there - but in the end it just didn't deliver for me. I don't think I'd have a hard time getting kids to pick it up (I will say, the publisher did a great job of selling me on the story from the jacket summary) but I don't think I'd have many finish it/come back raving about it. We shall see!
November 26, 2019
Set in Harlem, three children and a couple of their friends save their community and solve an art mystery in which readers will be able to follow the clues without solving secret codes and impossible puzzles.
March 27, 2017
As other reviewers have noted, fans of Blue Balliett's Chasing Vermeer and other art-related mysteries will enjoy this book. Anyone who likes history or has ever pondered the effects of the past on the present or the future will also enjoy it. Set in modern day Harlem, the book features three seventh graders whose lives and family backgrounds couldn't be more different. But when a chain of unlikely events draws Jin, Alexandra and Elvin together, they unite in an effort to solve the mystery of some missing paintings that somehow seem to be connected to an attack on Elvin's elderly grandfather and a city councilman's efforts to get reelected while turning parts of the neighborhood into a theme park. The path to friendship is not smooth as Jin and Alex constantly clash, and even the three youngsters are holding onto some secrets that might be best revealed. It's hard to know exactly who to trust at certain points, which made the book interesting to read. The fact that some developers would prefer to simply destroy historical sites in pursuit of progress and the sometimes unsavory side to the art world are explored honestly here. I raced through the book in a single sitting, eager to find out how everything would turn out. The ending seemed a bit hasty, but the rest of the book held my attention completely. Not only are the young characters interesting, but so are the secondary ones, proving yet again, how complex humans are and making it clear that everyone--perhaps even buildings--has a story to tell if only someone will take the time to listen.
July 23, 2021
Once again, I spoke too soon...
I was loving this book to the moon and back, but around 65% there was a big boring info dump, and then, after a very short time of regaining its momentum, there was a scene used to show the connection between all the bad guys which was way too long. Again the story somewhat picked up, but there were too many short superfluous scenes that didn't benefit the story; they only added length to an already overly long book.
Then there was a gun violence scene which is a huge no-no for me in Middle Grade.
After the climax there was a drawn-out edifying conclusion with important moral and ethical concepts presented in ways that would be slightly confusing, and mostly uninteresting for all but the oldest aged Middle Grade readers (11-12 year olds). Even then it seemed pretty dry for preteens, too. It's almost like the author forgot they were writing MG in the last 30% of the story. This always bothers me because if the young readers disengage, or stop reading, these important messages are lost to them.
What I did like... the friendships between young people and senior citizens, close friendships between boys and girls with no romantic overtones, charitable activities, the showcasing of how important art is in political protest and the teaching of history, and pointing out that Baby Boomers in the 1960s and 1970s were the originators of most of the social justice movements active today.
I was loving this book to the moon and back, but around 65% there was a big boring info dump, and then, after a very short time of regaining its momentum, there was a scene used to show the connection between all the bad guys which was way too long. Again the story somewhat picked up, but there were too many short superfluous scenes that didn't benefit the story; they only added length to an already overly long book.
Then there was a gun violence scene which is a huge no-no for me in Middle Grade.
After the climax there was a drawn-out edifying conclusion with important moral and ethical concepts presented in ways that would be slightly confusing, and mostly uninteresting for all but the oldest aged Middle Grade readers (11-12 year olds). Even then it seemed pretty dry for preteens, too. It's almost like the author forgot they were writing MG in the last 30% of the story. This always bothers me because if the young readers disengage, or stop reading, these important messages are lost to them.
What I did like... the friendships between young people and senior citizens, close friendships between boys and girls with no romantic overtones, charitable activities, the showcasing of how important art is in political protest and the teaching of history, and pointing out that Baby Boomers in the 1960s and 1970s were the originators of most of the social justice movements active today.
April 18, 2018
Reviewed for School Library Journal 11/1/2016.
Gr 4–6—What makes a community? What role does the past play in our present and future? These are the overarching questions posed in this Harlem-set mystery with its cast of three disparate seventh graders. Jin, who lives with her grandparents and helps run their bodega, is a keen observer of human nature and records all in her ever-present notebook. Alex, an extremely wealthy girl, spends her free time trying to help the disadvantaged, while being rude and abrasive to her fellow classmates. Elvin, who becomes the linchpin of the trio, has just arrived in Harlem to live with his estranged grandfather. When disaster strikes and his grandfather is brutally attacked, Elvin becomes homeless and the girls swoop in as caretakers. As the three begin to investigate the assault, they learn of a fascinating chapter in the Harlem art scene that has far-reaching ramifications for the present. The author's note will be helpful in classroom discussions and may prompt further reading. VERDICT: Exploring themes such as art, social justice, and the corporatization of historic settings, this selection will have strong regional appeal and will interest those who enjoyed Blue Balliett's Chasing Vermeer.—Amy Nolan, St. Joseph Public Library, MI
Gr 4–6—What makes a community? What role does the past play in our present and future? These are the overarching questions posed in this Harlem-set mystery with its cast of three disparate seventh graders. Jin, who lives with her grandparents and helps run their bodega, is a keen observer of human nature and records all in her ever-present notebook. Alex, an extremely wealthy girl, spends her free time trying to help the disadvantaged, while being rude and abrasive to her fellow classmates. Elvin, who becomes the linchpin of the trio, has just arrived in Harlem to live with his estranged grandfather. When disaster strikes and his grandfather is brutally attacked, Elvin becomes homeless and the girls swoop in as caretakers. As the three begin to investigate the assault, they learn of a fascinating chapter in the Harlem art scene that has far-reaching ramifications for the present. The author's note will be helpful in classroom discussions and may prompt further reading. VERDICT: Exploring themes such as art, social justice, and the corporatization of historic settings, this selection will have strong regional appeal and will interest those who enjoyed Blue Balliett's Chasing Vermeer.—Amy Nolan, St. Joseph Public Library, MI
August 17, 2018
This is such a heartwarming, intriguing mystery! When the discovery of a painting thought to be lost coincides with the attempted murder of a man in Harlem, three kids are drawn together in sleuthing adventures.
Jin, Alex and Elvin are completely different from each other and yet form a sweet friendship as they work to piece together the puzzle in this story. I especially loved how racially diverse the cast is, the emphasis on the power of art and the strong sense of community fostered in this novel.
The narration is equally fantastic and this story kept me glued until the very end! Very memorable characters and setting! Loved this one!
Jin, Alex and Elvin are completely different from each other and yet form a sweet friendship as they work to piece together the puzzle in this story. I especially loved how racially diverse the cast is, the emphasis on the power of art and the strong sense of community fostered in this novel.
The narration is equally fantastic and this story kept me glued until the very end! Very memorable characters and setting! Loved this one!
July 3, 2017
Jin, Alex and Elvin want to save their historic neighborhood from being turned into an amusement park tourist trap.
I really enjoyed this. Great characters, a great setting.
2017 Popsugar Reading Challenge- a book with a cat on n the cover
I really enjoyed this. Great characters, a great setting.
2017 Popsugar Reading Challenge- a book with a cat on n the cover
August 2, 2017
Didn't finish this. Several chapters in there started to be abrupt changes in narrative point of view, and I didn't think the main character used age-appropriate language. Disappointing, as I was looking forward to another art-centered mystery.
April 30, 2018
Combined art history and Harlem history with a mystery that was edgier than I expected for a MG novel. The message was a bit obvious but I'm not 10-12 years old. It might not be obvious to a middle grader.
July 27, 2018
Bluebonnet Book Reading 18-19. This was a great mystery book for kids. It has such great messages about not judging books by their covers, digging deeper, among other things.. this was a great read!
February 12, 2019
Fun middle grade art mystery filled with lots of interesting facts about Harlem.
September 3, 2019
A realistic art mystery story about three children who come together to save their community from turning into a theme park.
Similar plot points to Chasing Vermeer.
Similar plot points to Chasing Vermeer.
Read
March 25, 20212.5 stars:
The reason I didn't enjoy this book was mostly the random perspective change. I liked the main character and her friends, I thought the plot was fun and all, but randomly changing from the protagonist's perspective to Elvin's, just for the sake of plot is just lazy writing. I just have to say that I didn't finish the book, so I can't judge on the restof the story.
I really just lost motivation after the perspective change, and knew it would be a chore to finish the rest. Also, I didn't care much for Alex's "mysterious" character, it felt forced and like I already knew too much too soon. And Jin's backstory? Left in front of a church or something? It felt super unnecessary and is a weird cliché. Back to the perspective change though, it's a very important part of writing and setting the tone for the characters and the book, and if you want an inner monologue, do 1.person, if you want to change the perspective, do it well and more than once.
Ps: I know I am pretty critical, but it just upsets me when an author is so talented in story and plot, yet so lazy in such a simple aspect.
The reason I didn't enjoy this book was mostly the random perspective change. I liked the main character and her friends, I thought the plot was fun and all, but randomly changing from the protagonist's perspective to Elvin's, just for the sake of plot is just lazy writing. I just have to say that I didn't finish the book, so I can't judge on the restof the story.
I really just lost motivation after the perspective change, and knew it would be a chore to finish the rest. Also, I didn't care much for Alex's "mysterious" character, it felt forced and like I already knew too much too soon. And Jin's backstory? Left in front of a church or something? It felt super unnecessary and is a weird cliché. Back to the perspective change though, it's a very important part of writing and setting the tone for the characters and the book, and if you want an inner monologue, do 1.person, if you want to change the perspective, do it well and more than once.
Ps: I know I am pretty critical, but it just upsets me when an author is so talented in story and plot, yet so lazy in such a simple aspect.
January 23, 2023
Trigger warnings: hospitalisation of a grandparent, parent with cancer, gentrification, child abandonment (in the past), classism, gun violence, murder (in the past)
This is essentially a love letter to Harlem and the sense of community that goes along with it, and the different ways in which community can show itself. The three protagonists are all from very different backgrounds - Jin lives with her grandparents who run a bodega, Alex is rich but determined to use her wealth for good, and Elvin is living with his grandfather while his mother undergoes cancer treatment in California - and the dynamic between them worked well.
The mystery side of things could have been a liiiiittle faster paced for my liking, but I enjoyed that they actually had to go off and do research and learn about their neighbourhood and the threat of gentrification (in this case, through a Harlem themed amusement park) in order to work out what to do next in regards to solving the mystery.
A lovely mix of Harlem's history and its present, and one I thoroughly enjoyed.
This is essentially a love letter to Harlem and the sense of community that goes along with it, and the different ways in which community can show itself. The three protagonists are all from very different backgrounds - Jin lives with her grandparents who run a bodega, Alex is rich but determined to use her wealth for good, and Elvin is living with his grandfather while his mother undergoes cancer treatment in California - and the dynamic between them worked well.
The mystery side of things could have been a liiiiittle faster paced for my liking, but I enjoyed that they actually had to go off and do research and learn about their neighbourhood and the threat of gentrification (in this case, through a Harlem themed amusement park) in order to work out what to do next in regards to solving the mystery.
A lovely mix of Harlem's history and its present, and one I thoroughly enjoyed.
December 21, 2022
This was a exceptionally well-written book! I loved the mystery as well as the depiction of controversy surrounding "gentrification" and other 'advancements' in neighborhoods/cities. Truly well done. I'll search for more of Tarpley's writing!
June 29, 2018
My absolute favorite types of stories are the ones about place. I adore novels in which the setting is so lively, so carefully and tenderly described that the place itself is one of the novel's central characters. This is a difficult thing to do, but when it is done well, it elevates a perfectly fine book to a great one.
Natasha Tarpley's 'The Harlem Charade' is just that sort of book. A young adult mystery novel set in what is arguably New York's most famous neighborhood, 'The Harlem Charade' follows Elvin, Jin, and Alex as they attempt to unravel the story behind a vicious attack upon Elvin's grandfather and the discovery of rare painting in a community garden. The truth behind both mysteries are of course related, and Tarpley weaves an intricate tapestry that shows the connections between art, inequity and power differentials, community engagement, grassroots organizing, and ownership and belonging.
Elvin and Jin (Elvin especially) were great characters. I had a harder time connecting with Alex and found it near impossible for me to do so. Readers have to suspend themselves in disbelief to imagine these three twelve-year-olds solving what is (in this fictive world) one of modern Harlem's greatest political scandals. Nonetheless, it was refreshing to read a novel in which young children learned about the injustice of racial and economic marginalization and were engaged in their community's political and economic well-being.
However, without shear doubt, Harlem was the novel's greatest character. Like the real Harlem, it was a city in the midst of drastic racial, economic, and cultural transition. The insidious effects of gentrification--the disempowerment and displacement of longstanding (often working-class) communities of color--however, had yet to take root in this fictional universe. Unlike the real Harlem, the Harlem in Tarpley's novel has not drastically lost its families, bodegas, community centers, cultural practices, etc. It's on the cusp, and the heroic action of these three twelve-year-olds help stave off (this particular) socioeconomic/sociopolitical shift. The real Harlem has not been so easily protected.
The novel does start to drag a bit by the second half, and there is a somewhat overly dramatic, unengaging climax in the penultimate chapters.
Tarpley's novel nonetheless inspires its readers to think deeply about space and belonging (amongst other themes). I couldn't help but wonder how a twelve-year-old me would have absorbed the text. Adult me likes it just fine.
Natasha Tarpley's 'The Harlem Charade' is just that sort of book. A young adult mystery novel set in what is arguably New York's most famous neighborhood, 'The Harlem Charade' follows Elvin, Jin, and Alex as they attempt to unravel the story behind a vicious attack upon Elvin's grandfather and the discovery of rare painting in a community garden. The truth behind both mysteries are of course related, and Tarpley weaves an intricate tapestry that shows the connections between art, inequity and power differentials, community engagement, grassroots organizing, and ownership and belonging.
Elvin and Jin (Elvin especially) were great characters. I had a harder time connecting with Alex and found it near impossible for me to do so. Readers have to suspend themselves in disbelief to imagine these three twelve-year-olds solving what is (in this fictive world) one of modern Harlem's greatest political scandals. Nonetheless, it was refreshing to read a novel in which young children learned about the injustice of racial and economic marginalization and were engaged in their community's political and economic well-being.
However, without shear doubt, Harlem was the novel's greatest character. Like the real Harlem, it was a city in the midst of drastic racial, economic, and cultural transition. The insidious effects of gentrification--the disempowerment and displacement of longstanding (often working-class) communities of color--however, had yet to take root in this fictional universe. Unlike the real Harlem, the Harlem in Tarpley's novel has not drastically lost its families, bodegas, community centers, cultural practices, etc. It's on the cusp, and the heroic action of these three twelve-year-olds help stave off (this particular) socioeconomic/sociopolitical shift. The real Harlem has not been so easily protected.
The novel does start to drag a bit by the second half, and there is a somewhat overly dramatic, unengaging climax in the penultimate chapters.
Tarpley's novel nonetheless inspires its readers to think deeply about space and belonging (amongst other themes). I couldn't help but wonder how a twelve-year-old me would have absorbed the text. Adult me likes it just fine.
June 7, 2018
The Harlem Charade is an interesting book. I think The Harlem Charade is unlike any other book I’ve read before. It provides a different type of action that everyone should put in a mystery book. I recommend this book for reader’s ages 10-12 because even though there is no death there is a lot of moments that would potentially scare younger readers.
The Harlem Charade is about three teenagers: Alex and Jin, who go to the same school, and Elvin, who was homeless until he met them. Elvin’s grandfather, Jacob, was found unconscious in a community garden. At first, Alex, Elvin, and Jin try to find out who clubbed Jacob. Then, they find a letter from a member of the Invisible 7, a group of famous painters. They find out that Jacob was one of the Invisible 7, and they start a whole new adventure.
Markum, the mayor of Harlem, proposes to create an amusement park/museum called Harlem World, but at the same time he plans to destroy homes and shops to build it. Alex, Elvin, and Jin must stop Markum and his crew. Markum knows of their attempts to stop him and tries to capture them. Alex, Jin, and Elvin must put their lives into the hands of their friends Rad and T.J. without knowing if they are good or bad. The leader of the Invisible 7, named Henriette Drummond, left her paintings behind when she mysteriously disappeared, which are the only things keeping Markum from taking making Harlem World. Watch this amazing mystery unfold right in front of your eyes as you try to solve the mystery with the characters, unlike most mystery novels.
I give this book 5 stars because the plot is stranger than most books, creating a different layer of suspense to the novel. My favorite part in the book is when they solve the most difficult part of the puzzles while trying to escape from Markum’s crew, trying to get the paintings before Markum gets permission to open Harlem World.
Ryan S, 11, Mensa Alaska
The Harlem Charade is about three teenagers: Alex and Jin, who go to the same school, and Elvin, who was homeless until he met them. Elvin’s grandfather, Jacob, was found unconscious in a community garden. At first, Alex, Elvin, and Jin try to find out who clubbed Jacob. Then, they find a letter from a member of the Invisible 7, a group of famous painters. They find out that Jacob was one of the Invisible 7, and they start a whole new adventure.
Markum, the mayor of Harlem, proposes to create an amusement park/museum called Harlem World, but at the same time he plans to destroy homes and shops to build it. Alex, Elvin, and Jin must stop Markum and his crew. Markum knows of their attempts to stop him and tries to capture them. Alex, Jin, and Elvin must put their lives into the hands of their friends Rad and T.J. without knowing if they are good or bad. The leader of the Invisible 7, named Henriette Drummond, left her paintings behind when she mysteriously disappeared, which are the only things keeping Markum from taking making Harlem World. Watch this amazing mystery unfold right in front of your eyes as you try to solve the mystery with the characters, unlike most mystery novels.
I give this book 5 stars because the plot is stranger than most books, creating a different layer of suspense to the novel. My favorite part in the book is when they solve the most difficult part of the puzzles while trying to escape from Markum’s crew, trying to get the paintings before Markum gets permission to open Harlem World.
Ryan S, 11, Mensa Alaska
January 26, 2017
Three children in Harlem set out to solve a mystery. Jin, who has grown up in her adopted grandparents bodega, longs for some adventure to spice up her days. Alex is a girl who won’t talk about her family or her circumstances. She spends her days doing good deeds and working to feed those less fortunate. Elvin isn’t from Harlem, but has been sent there to stay with his grandfather. Unfortunately, his grandfather was attacked and is now hospitalized. The three start to investigate what happened to him and along the way discover a mystery of the art scene in Harlem and the dangers of developers to the small businesses that make Harlem so special. Along the way, the three discover real friendship, learn about their community and make a personal difference themselves.
Tarpley’s writing offers just enough background to inform and keeps it brief enough that the pace never slows. She handles the pacing deftly throughout the novel, allowing just enough time to catch your breath before the speed picks up again. The setting of Harlem is brought fully to life, both today’s Harlem and the Harlem of the 1960s. The setting is vital to the story and readers get to fully explore the sights, sounds and vibrancy of this neighborhood.
Tarpley has cast her book with many diverse characters and I’m very pleased to see them shown on the cover. The three main characters are all individual and unique, bringing their own skills and knowledge to the quest to solve the mystery. I appreciated that they didn’t always get along and that their viewpoints were different enough to create issues that were addressed in the story. The villains of the story are also wonderfully evil, adding a great deal of satisfaction as their roles are made clear.
An incredible debut novel that offers a winning diverse cast and a rich look at Harlem. Appropriate for ages 9-12.
Tarpley’s writing offers just enough background to inform and keeps it brief enough that the pace never slows. She handles the pacing deftly throughout the novel, allowing just enough time to catch your breath before the speed picks up again. The setting of Harlem is brought fully to life, both today’s Harlem and the Harlem of the 1960s. The setting is vital to the story and readers get to fully explore the sights, sounds and vibrancy of this neighborhood.
Tarpley has cast her book with many diverse characters and I’m very pleased to see them shown on the cover. The three main characters are all individual and unique, bringing their own skills and knowledge to the quest to solve the mystery. I appreciated that they didn’t always get along and that their viewpoints were different enough to create issues that were addressed in the story. The villains of the story are also wonderfully evil, adding a great deal of satisfaction as their roles are made clear.
An incredible debut novel that offers a winning diverse cast and a rich look at Harlem. Appropriate for ages 9-12.
January 16, 2018
Originally posted here at In the Senter of it All
A treasure hunt through the history of Harlem, this book is exciting and motivating. What a fantastic book! I loved it from the first page! I recently spoke to a friend who said, “I wish there were more books like this about different cities!” You learn the history of Harlem without feeling like it’s a history lesson, but an adventure.
SUMMARY: Jin, Elvin and Alex find themselves unraveling the secrets of the Invisible 7! Along the way the discover art and history, foil a plot to turn Harlem into an amusement park, and save the legacy of an entire generation of artists.
CONTENT:
Language: none
Sexuality: none
Violence: mild-- the villains threaten to kill the kids and at one point tie them up and try to set the building on fire. One of them also threatens them with a gun.
Drugs/Alcohol: none
THEMES: history, family, friendship, art
THE BOTTOM LINE: I adored this book and I am so thrilled it is on the Texas Bluebonnet list next year. It will also be in our Quest for the Crown for 2019.
STATUS IN MY LIBRARY: We have 2 copies in the elementary and will definitely have it in the middle school as well.
READALIKES:
Blue Balliett
The Ring of Rocamadour
Liar & Spy
A treasure hunt through the history of Harlem, this book is exciting and motivating. What a fantastic book! I loved it from the first page! I recently spoke to a friend who said, “I wish there were more books like this about different cities!” You learn the history of Harlem without feeling like it’s a history lesson, but an adventure.
SUMMARY: Jin, Elvin and Alex find themselves unraveling the secrets of the Invisible 7! Along the way the discover art and history, foil a plot to turn Harlem into an amusement park, and save the legacy of an entire generation of artists.
CONTENT:
Language: none
Sexuality: none
Violence: mild-- the villains threaten to kill the kids and at one point tie them up and try to set the building on fire. One of them also threatens them with a gun.
Drugs/Alcohol: none
THEMES: history, family, friendship, art
THE BOTTOM LINE: I adored this book and I am so thrilled it is on the Texas Bluebonnet list next year. It will also be in our Quest for the Crown for 2019.
STATUS IN MY LIBRARY: We have 2 copies in the elementary and will definitely have it in the middle school as well.
READALIKES:
Blue Balliett
The Ring of Rocamadour
Liar & Spy
July 12, 2018
Review originally posted on www.yabookscentral.com
Jin's grandparents own a bodega in Harlem, and she likes to watch people from her out-of-the-way quiet nook and write her observations in a special notebook. Alex spends as much time as she can helping the needy in the neighborhood as she tries to hide the fact that her parents are ridiculously wealthy. Elvin was recently sent from California to New York to stay with the grandfather he didn't even know existed, and now his grandfather has been attacked and seriously injured, and Elvin is living on the streets to avoid Child Protective Services.
These three very different kids team up in THE HARLEM CHARADE first for a history project, and then to solve the mystery of Elvin's grandfather's attack and the disappearance of paintings that are a part of Harlem's history.
THE HARLEM CHARADE by Natasha Tarpley explores the rich history of the Harlem neighborhood, and it weaves an interesting mystery into that. Jin, Alex, and Elvin are great characters with intriguing backstories, and Halmoni, Jin's grandmother, is wonderful, too. I really enjoyed the emphasis on community and the importance of art and history. Tarpley did a nice job tying those themes to the book's plot, and the pacing is such that my interest was held page after page.
Harlem is as much a character in the book as any of the people portrayed, and I enjoyed traveling the streets of it with Jin, Alex, and Elvin as they worked through the twists and turns of the mystery in which they found themselves. There are some Scooby-Doo elements to the book, and I kept expecting the adults to call Jin, Alex, and Elvin "meddling kids" (which thankfully didn't happen), and this is a fun read with some truly insightful moments. The
My thanks to the publisher and YA Books Central for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Jin's grandparents own a bodega in Harlem, and she likes to watch people from her out-of-the-way quiet nook and write her observations in a special notebook. Alex spends as much time as she can helping the needy in the neighborhood as she tries to hide the fact that her parents are ridiculously wealthy. Elvin was recently sent from California to New York to stay with the grandfather he didn't even know existed, and now his grandfather has been attacked and seriously injured, and Elvin is living on the streets to avoid Child Protective Services.
These three very different kids team up in THE HARLEM CHARADE first for a history project, and then to solve the mystery of Elvin's grandfather's attack and the disappearance of paintings that are a part of Harlem's history.
THE HARLEM CHARADE by Natasha Tarpley explores the rich history of the Harlem neighborhood, and it weaves an interesting mystery into that. Jin, Alex, and Elvin are great characters with intriguing backstories, and Halmoni, Jin's grandmother, is wonderful, too. I really enjoyed the emphasis on community and the importance of art and history. Tarpley did a nice job tying those themes to the book's plot, and the pacing is such that my interest was held page after page.
Harlem is as much a character in the book as any of the people portrayed, and I enjoyed traveling the streets of it with Jin, Alex, and Elvin as they worked through the twists and turns of the mystery in which they found themselves. There are some Scooby-Doo elements to the book, and I kept expecting the adults to call Jin, Alex, and Elvin "meddling kids" (which thankfully didn't happen), and this is a fun read with some truly insightful moments. The
My thanks to the publisher and YA Books Central for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
July 18, 2017
Although this title suffers from a few plotting issues, it's an interesting mystery and an even more interesting look at an important neighborhood and time. This also speaks to the power and importance of art.
Jin has to do a school project on her neighborhood, and she's stumped. Several ideas appeal to her and then she comes across Alex, a mysterious girl who hands out free Metrocards and collects donations for a food pantry. Maybe they could do something about that? Adding Elvin (who's homeless since his grandfather was attacked in the park where a painting by a Harlem Renaissance artist was found) cements their goal: solving the mystery of the attack and the paintings becomes their project and mission. Along the way, they save the neighborhood form unscrupulous developers. And become friends.
The author has done a good job of introducing the Harlem Renaissance and its main characters, without bogging down the story, and the controversy about the "Harlem on My Mind" exhibit is thought-provoking. The idea of preserving a neighborhood, and that not all change is progress, is an important one for kids to consider. Jin's close adoptive family (protective grandparents) and their bodega are charming; Elvin and his sick mom and newly discovered grandfather, and Alex's desire to distance herself from her wealthy family all add interesting story wrinkles. Although the bad guys are bumbling, there's still real suspense as the kids search for information.
Jin has to do a school project on her neighborhood, and she's stumped. Several ideas appeal to her and then she comes across Alex, a mysterious girl who hands out free Metrocards and collects donations for a food pantry. Maybe they could do something about that? Adding Elvin (who's homeless since his grandfather was attacked in the park where a painting by a Harlem Renaissance artist was found) cements their goal: solving the mystery of the attack and the paintings becomes their project and mission. Along the way, they save the neighborhood form unscrupulous developers. And become friends.
The author has done a good job of introducing the Harlem Renaissance and its main characters, without bogging down the story, and the controversy about the "Harlem on My Mind" exhibit is thought-provoking. The idea of preserving a neighborhood, and that not all change is progress, is an important one for kids to consider. Jin's close adoptive family (protective grandparents) and their bodega are charming; Elvin and his sick mom and newly discovered grandfather, and Alex's desire to distance herself from her wealthy family all add interesting story wrinkles. Although the bad guys are bumbling, there's still real suspense as the kids search for information.
February 7, 2017
This was a delightfully diverse story featuring 3 middle schoolers (plus 2 sidekicks) who band together to solve a mystery grounded in their community of Harlem and art history. I greatly enjoyed how Tarpley envelopes the reader in Harlem, the neighborhood truly is its own character, vibrant and dynamic. The friendship that develops between Elvin, Jin and Alex is finely wrought and complex. They each bring their own skills to solving the mystery and worked really well as a team ultimately. I loved the idea of the Invisible 7 artists collective working to support the community and creativity. Actually I could have read an entire book just about them. The idea of a businessman trying to turn an entire community into a theme park is horrifying and sadly not too hard to imagine. I think I enjoyed the relationships and community aspects of this story more than the mystery. This is more of a study of people, art and how the past impacts the future than an action-packed puzzle to solve.
In her author's note, Tarpley asks " Who gets to decide what is important about a community? How can people embrace the future without completely losing the past? Who gets to tell our stories?" So many intriguing questions that I will be pondering for a while.
Thank you to Scholastic for the ARC! I was so glad to receive a copy at the ALA Midwinter.
In her author's note, Tarpley asks " Who gets to decide what is important about a community? How can people embrace the future without completely losing the past? Who gets to tell our stories?" So many intriguing questions that I will be pondering for a while.
Thank you to Scholastic for the ARC! I was so glad to receive a copy at the ALA Midwinter.
June 26, 2019
Want a middle grade book that exposes you to a different part of the country? This book is for you as you get to experience life in the community of Harlam, NY.
Three very different 12 yo, must track down the missing paintings, foil the evil politician and find out why Elvin's grandfather was attacked.
Wonderfully written, well-developed characters, great story, historical facts woven throughout. I listened to the audio version from my library (Libby) and the narrator had so many distinctive voices that really brought the characters to life, everything from a Korean grandmother, a black grandfather, a stern museum curator, whiny bad guy, oily politician. It was fantastic.
My only quibble was the characterization of anything that changes a place. The kids in the story benefited from the modern conveniences that had definitely changed Harlem, but they advocated for no change to any of the history, and made out the politicians and business people (only big business as evil). There was no nuance. I don't mind this storyline, after all you need a bad guy to create conflict, especially in a mystery, but at times it was to heavy handed, preachy and black-white for issues that require nuance. I think kids can handle and should be exposed to nuance.
Three very different 12 yo, must track down the missing paintings, foil the evil politician and find out why Elvin's grandfather was attacked.
Wonderfully written, well-developed characters, great story, historical facts woven throughout. I listened to the audio version from my library (Libby) and the narrator had so many distinctive voices that really brought the characters to life, everything from a Korean grandmother, a black grandfather, a stern museum curator, whiny bad guy, oily politician. It was fantastic.
My only quibble was the characterization of anything that changes a place. The kids in the story benefited from the modern conveniences that had definitely changed Harlem, but they advocated for no change to any of the history, and made out the politicians and business people (only big business as evil). There was no nuance. I don't mind this storyline, after all you need a bad guy to create conflict, especially in a mystery, but at times it was to heavy handed, preachy and black-white for issues that require nuance. I think kids can handle and should be exposed to nuance.
November 28, 2017
In the Harlem Charade, EVERYONE has a secret.
This story focuses on three kids in Harlem who team up to solve a mystery AND try to defeat a nefarious politician who’s planning on some very weird gentrification. Jin is Korean American and works after school at her family’s bodega. Alex is a young activist who strives to fight against her family’s wealthy lifestyle by collecting food for shelters and giving away metro cards undercover. Elvin is a young guy, displaced from his mother, alone and lost in Harlem. The unlikely trio band together to help Elvin’s family, solve an art mystery which dates back to the 60s and keep their neighborhood from being destroyed. Part Harriet the Spy part Brown Girl Dreaming, this story will relate to children of all backgrounds, celebrates diverse characters and keeps readers on their toes as the kids dig further into the mystery. Coming of age, activism and amature sleuthing insure that there’s a little something for everyone. Plus the cover is beautiful and engaging, I wish it were illustrated or a graphic novel. It jumped off the shelf into my library bag!
This story focuses on three kids in Harlem who team up to solve a mystery AND try to defeat a nefarious politician who’s planning on some very weird gentrification. Jin is Korean American and works after school at her family’s bodega. Alex is a young activist who strives to fight against her family’s wealthy lifestyle by collecting food for shelters and giving away metro cards undercover. Elvin is a young guy, displaced from his mother, alone and lost in Harlem. The unlikely trio band together to help Elvin’s family, solve an art mystery which dates back to the 60s and keep their neighborhood from being destroyed. Part Harriet the Spy part Brown Girl Dreaming, this story will relate to children of all backgrounds, celebrates diverse characters and keeps readers on their toes as the kids dig further into the mystery. Coming of age, activism and amature sleuthing insure that there’s a little something for everyone. Plus the cover is beautiful and engaging, I wish it were illustrated or a graphic novel. It jumped off the shelf into my library bag!
July 2, 2018
Solid choice for students in grades 4-6 or those with an interest in art history, Harlem, and/or realistic mysteries. Jin, Alex and Elvin have no common ground on which to base a friendship, but a lost-then-found painting by an historic Harlem artist, a mega building project that will completely change their Harlem neighborhood, and a goat Pez dispense bring the unlikely pair together to solve a mystery, reveal a criminal, and right a wrong. While mysteries are not a tremendously popular genre in my libraries, Harlem Charade adds enough friendship and family drama to the mix that many of my 4th and 5th graders will enjoy this one. Content note: no profanity, sexual content or excessive violence to worry about, but the main characters break into buildings and Jin is dishonest with her grandmother on numerous occasions. Jin even states that she “ hated lying to her grandmother, but sometimes rules had to be broken for the greater good.” As the trio never experience any real consequences for their infractions, some adults may be unhappy with the mystery solving methods used by the young sleuths.
December 24, 2018
The Harlem Charade tells a fast paced story of three unlikely friends coming together to solve a mystery in Harlem. Jin, Alex, and Elvin - a Korean girl who lives with her adopted grandparents and helps out at their bodega in Harlem, a wealthy white girl who is desperate to help those in need as a way to deny her life of privilege, and a skinny black boy whose alone in the city because his mother is receiving cancer treatments and his guardian grandfather has been mysteriously attacked in a neighborhood garden and is in a coma at the Harlem Hospital - are driven to solve first the mystery of Elvin's grandfather's attack, and then to follow the clues to discover lost art from the '60's and deny an evil councilman's dream of turning Harlem into a shallow theme park. They argue and get mad at each other and then bond again and move forward. They meet characters from the past and move steadily toward the surprising climax of the story. I enjoyed the pace, the characters, and the history embedded in the story. Natasha Tarpley did an excellent job of pulling me into the story and spurring me to learn more about the artistic diversity of Harlem past and present.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews