Preteen Book Strikes a Chord

Richard Mulligan's gripping preteen tale about a lost pet who has lost his memory and is thrust into a perilous mission to solve some perplexing mysteries is compelling on two levels: its suspenseful drama (mitigated by humor), and its positive, useful, and timely message. Along the way, it also educates its young readers about nature and the animal world.

Chicago, IL, July 27, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Richard Mulligan’s newly released preteen novella, Marvin’s Mysteries, is an exciting and intriguing preteen adventure story that strikes an adult chord with a message that is both timeless and timely.

Lonely and afraid, Marvin, a lost pet who fell from a car and woke up beside his pet carrier on the side of a road, realizes that he can’t remember anything from his past. He can’t even remember what kind of animal he is, yet he is now on a journey to uncover a dark secret, deep in the forest, where his new friend, a rabbit named Orville, was tragically orphaned as a child.

The perils of his journey are made bearable only by the hope of recapturing his memory and returning home; and by the support and friendship of his two companions, Orville and another new friend, Lucy, a raccoon “whose bravery, resourcefulness, and humor make up for her rudeness”, according to the author. Along the way, the trio is confronted by various obstacles and dangers, while trying to solve the mysteries of Marvin’s identity and Orville’s tragedy.

Throughout their journey, Marvin’s approach to conflict and problem solving is strikingly uncharacteristic of his species, and permanently changes the outlook of friends and foes, alike. The lessons learned are profound, and resonate in the real world for adults, as well as the young readers who will absorb them.

Teachers and parents will notice that this gripping and entertaining tale is also educational, as it teaches young readers (and some adults) a great deal about nature and the animal world. It is also a quick read at 118 pages.

About the Author

Marvin’s Mysteries is Richard Mulligan’s first book about Marvin, the animal of mysterious origin, but probably not the last. Animals of Marvin’s species will be unfamiliar to many of the book’s readers, but Mr. Mulligan grew up in a place where they roamed freely. Today, he and his wife live in a quiet suburb of Chicago, and there are no such animals in their lives. Marvin’s Mysteries can be found at various web sites, including, but not limited to Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, and Stores.Lulu.com/HobbesHeaven.

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Richard Mulligan
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