Narrated by Arte Johnson (!). Twelve-year-old private detective Steve Brixton is semi-retired after learning the author of his favorite mystery series has a criminal background. But the juices start flowing again during a train trip to San Diego when Steve and his friend Dana meet a wealthy couple whose valuable cars are being stolen. There are plenty of surprise twists and suspenseful chapter endings to keep young readers guessing and becoming fans of the genre. Although Johnson's narration doesn't really bring out the personalities of the characters or the moments of high suspense, his avuncular tone is easy on the ears, like listening to your grandpa reading aloud to you. ( )