Clutch by M.G. Leonard

Twitch and his friends become embroiled in a mystery when the eggs from a Peregrine Falcon’s nest are stolen. Because of Twitch’s passion for birds he becomes a suspect in a crime that he was never likely to have committed. Twitch and his fellow Twitchers put on their detective ‘hats’ to solve the crime that defies their understanding. Why would anyone want to end the life of a new generation of rare birds? The local environment is also hosting a fishing competition that involves locals and visitors to the English countryside where Twitch lives. There are many suspects for the team to investigate and many twists and turns that need to be smoothed out before they can solve the mystery of the missing clutch of eggs. Another exciting adventure.

This is book three in the series by M G Leonard, a series beginning with Twitch and then Spark. Every book has a mystery and an investigation and woven within that is the wonderful world of the birding enthusiast in England  and particularly the ‘fledgling’ fans … the young environmentalists. The excitement and intrigue have the feel of a Famous Five  adventure combined with the environmental focus. Interestingly in this book, the world of the birdwatcher is at odds with the illegal actions of the egg collectors who must carry on their actions in subterfuge and with deceptive ploys.  I have now read all three books in the series and every book is worth recommending and introducing young readers to the Twitching community. This is another series that readers aged 9-12 will enjoy for its detective story quality and for the young heroes and heroines who are the central characters, their daring and intelligence will impress readers who discover this series. But scattered through the story are moments of fun and silliness, and also insights into observational science.

Themes: Birdwatching, theft, birds’ eggs, friendship, detectives.

Carolyn Hull