ART AUCTION MYSTERY

Using as the frame a sketchy plot involving an anonymous tip that some of the entries in an upcoming auction are fakes, Nilsen presents a double gallery of 34 new and old masterworks, 16 of which are paired to subtly altered copies. Furthermore, providing a supplementary gallery of mug shots, she promises that the alterations contain clues to who the forgers are, who paid them and even how much. She suggests that readers compare the “catalog” images with the originals carefully, and note each variation on a chart—but even those not motivated (read: obsessive) enough to take her up on that will find themselves poring over the lusciously reproduced art, which includes entries from Fra Angelico to Andy Warhol, with highlights between, along with extended label-style annotations for each entry. For art appreciators, a prize; for puzzle fans, a challenging set of interlocking clues, as well as a clever way to sharpen both observational and reasoning skills. Answer key at back. (Picture book. 8-10)