The Bullet Catch: Murder by Misadventure

In a historical mystery set in New York City in 1917, this mother-son writing team explores the question of what is and isn't real. After Leo, a 13-year-old petty thief, picks the pocket of washed-up illusionist Franco Barzini, the man sees potential in Leo's sleight of hand. Barzini takes him on as his assistant, and the two set out to perfect the bullet catch, a daring act that involves a faux fatal shooting. But both performers' pasts catch up with them: Leo's former street gang seeks revenge for the money he stole to start a new life, and Barzini's nemesis upstages him with a variation on the bullet catch (and mysteriously dies performing it). Historical characters give the story additional spark: Harry Houdini leaks the secret of Barzini's trick to his rival, and Arthur Conan Doyle hosts a s%C3%A9ance in which Barzini and Leo humorously flaunt their powers of persuasion. Beyond the entertaining smoke and mirrors, the novel offers substantive food for thought regarding loyalty, trust, forgiveness, and redemption. Ages 10%E2%80%9314. (May)