SOLVED. fictional character becomes real kid-YA [s]

[Levon]

5-10 years ago I read a book where a kid(teen?) is assigned to write a story and the story gets away from him, and I'm fairly sure the main character comes to life.

The character in question I'm fairly sure was a criminal of some sort? And had a sister.

The main part I remember is that towards the end the story the kid wrote gets torn to pieces, but his mom, who is taking part in a puzzle solving competition puts it together again, beating her opponent.

I am also fairly sure there were evil teachers involved, or at least a evil female gym teacher.

[Tab]

Anything about the cover?
Part of a series?
Time period /location story takes place?

Was this more of a fantasy, mystery, comedy, etc?

[Levon]

It wasn't part of a series, I do remember that much. And it was more of a adventure book with fantastic elements. Think Jacob Two Two or Roald Dahl's books. I can't remember the cover unfortunately. I do remember getting it out of the library as a book on tape as well as reading it though.

[Levon]

Oh, as to the period? 1980s to 1990s probably. The mom's puzzle solving rival put together a computer without a manual i believe.

[Mary]

You've got two books here.
A Villain's Night Out by Margaret Mahy is the first one, about the character who comes to life.
The second is The Horribly Haunted School also by Margaret Mahy.

[Levon]

*slowly starts to smile* Yes, I believe those are the books, thank you so much!