Chasing Vermeer

Blue Balliett’s "Chasing Vermeer" isn’t your typical children’s mystery. It’s a brainy romp through Hyde Park, Chicago, where two sixth graders, Petra Andalee and Calder Pillay, get tangled up in the theft of a priceless Johannes Vermeer painting, "A Lady Writing." But don’t expect a straightforward whodunit. This book asks its readers to think sideways—to see connections in art, numbers, and everyday life that most adults might miss.

Petra and Calder couldn’t be more different on paper. Petra is the quiet, thoughtful type who loves to write and notice details others overlook. Calder is a math whiz obsessed with pentominoes—those geometric puzzle pieces that fit together in surprising ways. Their friendship blossoms as they team up, each bringing their unique perspective to the table. Their teacher, Ms. Hussey, is the kind of educator who doesn’t settle for “just the facts.” She nudges them to question everything and embrace the weird, tangled web of clues that pop up.

The mystery itself is anchored in the theft of a Vermeer painting from the Art Institute of Chicago. But the story quickly becomes less about the crime and more about how patterns—whether in art, math, or human behavior—can reveal hidden truths. Balliett cleverly weaves art history and mathematical concepts into the narrative without feeling like a boring lecture. Instead, these elements become tools for the kids and readers alike to unlock the puzzle.

The novel’s atmosphere mixes genuine suspense with intellectual stimulation. Brett Helquist’s illustrations don’t just decorate the pages; they’re part of the puzzle, with ciphers and visual riddles that invite readers to jump in and solve along with Petra and Calder. It’s like a scavenger hunt for your brain.

But "Chasing Vermeer" is more than just a mystery or a lesson in art appreciation. It digs into themes of perception and interconnectedness—how tiny, seemingly unrelated events can be threads in a bigger tapestry. This idea challenges both the characters and readers to rethink how they notice the world around them. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most obvious explanation isn’t the right one, and that curiosity is a powerful tool.

The book’s style is straightforward but not dumbed down. Balliett respects her young audience’s intelligence, mixing in some dry humor and a conversational tone that keeps things lively. The omniscient narration gives insight into the characters’ thoughts without spoiling the mystery, striking a good balance between suspense and understanding.

That said, the pacing can feel a bit uneven—some readers might find the detailed puzzles slow the action down. And while the integration of art and math is innovative, it might alienate kids who aren’t as interested in those subjects. Still, it’s a refreshing change from the usual kids’ mystery fare.

Ultimately, "Chasing Vermeer" offers a reading experience that’s as much about learning how to think as it is about solving a crime. It’s for anyone who enjoys stories that trust their readers to be curious and clever, and who don’t mind a little brainwork with their adventure.