Key to Finding Jack

Twelve-year-old Flick and her older brother Jack have always been partners in crime, and she loves cracking puzzles alongside him. Her world tilts when Jack, who is about to leave home, travels to Peru for a gap year. Flick has never wanted him to grow up, and her father keeps urging him to think seriously about his future. Then an earthquake tears through the region, and Jack vanishes without a trace, leaving Flick and her family stranded in fear and uncertainty.

In Jack's room, Flick finds a key on a delicate gold chain and a note bearing the initials SF. Clinging to the hope that whoever SF is might lead her to her brother, she sets out to learn who they are. Along the way she makes new friends, reconnects with Jack in a way she never expected, and begins to see a side of him she never knew existed. Clues drawn from a legend about Inca gold, along with a key said to hold magical powers, guide her search.

This third novel by Waterstones Prize shortlisted author Ewa Jozefkowicz combines a story within a story with a puzzle for young readers to follow. It explores sacrifice, courage, family, friendship, and the value of making the most of life, all centred on the bond between siblings.