The Mall

The Mall by Richie Tankersley Cusick presents a compelling, age-appropriate mystery for transitional readers. The story centers on Trish, a young girl whose seemingly ordinary job at a shopping mall takes a sinister turn. What begins with a peculiar customer encounter quickly escalates to unsettling phone calls and the pervasive feeling of being watched, creating a palpable sense of suspense. The book handles the sensitive topic of stalking in a mild, non-graphic manner, focusing on the protagonist's emotional experience of fear and her eventual bravery in confronting the unknown. The emotional arc moves from initial normalcy to growing anxiety and fear, culminating in a resolution that likely involves Trish's resilience and the uncovering of the mystery. This book is specifically for children aged 7-11 who are drawn to mysteries and enjoy a touch of suspense without being overly frightened. It's an excellent choice for a child looking for a 'scary but not too scary' read or for those transitioning from shorter early readers to longer chapter books. A parent might reach for this when their child is seeking a thrilling story that also offers a subtle opportunity to discuss personal safety, intuition, and what to do if they ever feel uncomfortable or threatened. Parents should be prepared to discuss the themes of being watched and stranger danger, reassuring children that the story is fictional and providing practical advice. Younger readers (7-8) will likely be engrossed by the suspense and mystery, while older readers (9-11) might appreciate the puzzle-solving aspect and the relatable mall setting. What sets this book apart from others on similar topics is its accessible 'early reader' format combined with a substantial page count, making it a good bridge for developing readers, and its focus on a common, relatable setting like a mall to ground the suspense.