The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues
The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues
Book Brief
Beta176
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
1989
YA
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
In Ellen Raskin's The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues, an aspiring artist named Dickory Dock becomes an assistant to an enigmatic painter in Greenwich Village. As they investigate a series of quirky mysteries, Dickory uncovers hidden secrets and learns about crime-solving while navigating the eccentric art world.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Playful
Humorous
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
1,564 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues by Ellen Raskin offers a quirky mystery filled with eccentric characters and tangled puzzles. Readers appreciate its clever plot and witty humor, though some find the twists confusing. The book stands out for its unique storytelling and engaging illustrations, making it an intriguing read for those who enjoy complex narratives.
Who Should Read The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues?
Ideal for young adult readers who relish quirky mysteries and clever puzzles, The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues will appeal to fans of Ellen Raskin's The Westing Game and Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events. Readers who enjoy intricate plots and eccentric characters will be captivated by this whimsical detective story.
1,564 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ellen Raskin, the author of The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues, was not only a writer but also a gifted illustrator and designer, who famously designed the original cover for the first edition of A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle.
Despite being known primarily for her contributions to children's literature, Raskin's work, including The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues, often delves into complex themes and sophisticated humor aimed at engaging both young and older readers.
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The book's setting, a quirky and mysterious apartment-studio, mirrors Raskin's own background and experiences as an artist living in vibrant, urban environments, contributing to the story's authentic artsy atmosphere.
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176
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
1989
YA
10-14 years
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