Note: Because this series has such short books in it, it is more set up like parts of a story. So I am going to review them like they are sections of one story, not a stand-alone story.
SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY
The Grace's go to visit Great-aunt Lucinda. Secrets are revealed, but also more questions. What really happened to Arthur Spiderwick? Did he abandon his daughter and leave her the mercy of the vengeful faeries? When they find a map, they decide to follow it and see where it leads in order to learn more. But trouble ensues.
RETURNING CHARACTERS
Jared is quite affected by the revelation that Arthur went missing and left Lucinda behind. He takes it personally, obviously comparing it to being abandoned by his father.
Simon's character doesn't show himself much. Except his naivete is revealed in one scene when he references his dad.
Mallory changes slightly during an event, she trusts that Jared has figured something out. Also, by the end of the book, she has changed her mind about the guide. There was one scene where her femininity came out slightly. I would like to see that more.
NEW CHARACTERS
Phooka is a shapeshifter they encounter. He speaks in riddles and is very Cheshire Cat-esque. It's impossible not to smile while reading his dialogue. He is more than just amusing though, he helps to direct the kids to the elves and gives Jared an idea about where Arthur Spiderwick is.
The elves are condescending and arrogant. They are bigoted against humans because of the way they chop down trees and destroy forests. They reveal they want the guide simply to prevent an ogre named Mulgarath from getting it.
Lucinda lives in an asylum. People think her to be nuts because she refuses to eat any food. She eagerly tells the children her story when they reveal they know about the faeries. She is kind but sad, still wondering why her father disappeared.
PACING
The pacing isn't as fast as book two, because the book is not the action part of the story. Since the last one was, it makes sense that this part of the story be balanced with questions and hints at what is to come.
THEME
Not really a theme, but a genre. Book three in the series presents a mystery like the first book. But this one also has an investigation, which leads to danger. Although this book is similar to book one, in which it ends with a hint at what is to come: further investigation into Arthur.
CLIMAX-SPOILERS
Again, not a traditional climax. Since the story is mainly an investigation part of the story, when the climax arises with trouble, it is easily and readily outwitted by Jared. But that it wasn't action packed wasn't the point. The point was to get information and come away unscathed, which we did.
CONCLUSION
This book probably has the best look into Jared's feelings. That is one of my favorite aspects. The phooka is charming and reminiscent of the Cheshire cat and the elves are arrogant enough to believe they are royals. I give “Lucinda's Secret” three and a half stars.
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