Why do kids love mysteries?

“Mysteries offer a world in which justice and order prevail” (Charles & Clark 2012, p.2).  This is particularly appealing to children, most of whom like order and neat resolutions in which the ‘baddy’ gets his comeuppance.  Having just moved on from the predictable world of fairytales, many children enjoy formulas that they can rely on.

The puzzles presented in mystery fiction are attractive to readers (Saricks 2009). Naturally curious, children enjoy solving puzzles. The goal of solving a puzzle appeals to most of us and particularly in a series children have the opportunity to spot clues and follow the formula to enjoy solving the mystery along with the hero. “Like their readers, fictional detectives devote their minds and energies to these mysteries…the lure of the puzzle drives them, just as it entrances fans.” (Saricks 2009 p. 200) In Encyclopedia Brown, boy detective, for example, a series of mini-puzzles are presented for readers to solve within each book.

Children’s mysteries often involve brave and intrepid characters or groups of friends whom children can continue to encounter throughout a series, like the Famous Five, the Hardy boys and Nancy Drew. In mystery series, readers enjoy forming an attachment to the main characters, and having an opportunity to learn more about the changes in their life as the series progresses. (Charles & Clark 2012). This can be as much of a drawcard as the mysteries themselves (Saricks 2009). Sidekick characters are often an attractive feature as well, and groups of friends appeal to children. Whatever your favourite genre, we all enjoy meeting a beloved character on a regular basis. In children’s books these characters are usually likeable (Krapp 2004) and young readers can easily identify with their eagerness for adventure. The amateur kid detective is basically an ordinary kid (albeit with extraordinary powers of deduction), like the reader. Mysteries are escapism for kids, who can imagine themselves having similar adventures with well-resolved endings.

Saricks (2009) also points out the importance of the setting in the appeal of mysteries. For young readers a familiar backdrop such as a school or neighbourhood adds to the appeal. Equally, well depicted fantastic destinations appeal to some readers. In general though, mysteries appeal simply because they tell a gripping story.