Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett follows two gifted sixth-graders, Petra Andalee and Calder Pillay, from the University of Chicago’s Laboratory School as they unravel an art mystery involving a stolen Vermeer painting. Using their unique skills with patterns, pentominoes, and codes, they navigate a series of puzzles to find the missing artwork, solve hidden clues, and uncover the thief in contemporary Hyde Park.

Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett is celebrated for its clever integration of art, mystery, and puzzle-solving that appeals to young readers. The book's engaging storyline and unique illustrations by Brett Helquist receive praise. Some critics note that the plot can become convoluted and the characters occasionally lack depth. Nonetheless, its innovative approach to children's literature is widely admired.

Readers who enjoy Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett are young sleuths aged 8-12 with a passion for mystery, art, and puzzles. Fans of The Westing Game or From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler will appreciate the clever, art-themed detective work and mind-bending challenges that this book offers.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Informative / Adventurous / Challenging

- Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett features illustrations by Brett Helquist that include a hidden, coded puzzle involving pentominoes, which readers can use to further engage with the story.
- The book was inspired by Blue Balliett's interest in art and the complex history surrounding famous paintings, making it a unique blend of art history and mystery.
- Chasing Vermeer gained notable attention for encouraging young readers to think critically and creatively, earning a spot on several school reading lists for its educational value and engaging narrative.

Blue Balliett

Middle grade

Novel

Chasing Vermeer

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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Chasing Vermeer Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-6

Chasing Vermeer Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-12

Chasing Vermeer Chapters 7-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-18

Chasing Vermeer Chapters 13-18 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 19-24

Chasing Vermeer Chapters 19-24 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Chasing Vermeer Character Analysis

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Themes

Chasing Vermeer Themes

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Chasing Vermeer Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Chasing Vermeer Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Chasing Vermeer Essay Topics

Chasing Vermeer Teaching Unit

Introduction

Chasing Vermeer Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Reading Context

Chasing Vermeer Reading Context

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Chasing Vermeer Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Answer Key

Chasing Vermeer Reading Questions Answer Key

After Reading

Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Chasing Vermeer Discussion/Analysis Prompt

Activity

Chasing Vermeer Activity

Essay Questions

Chasing Vermeer Essay Questions

Exam Questions

Chasing Vermeer Cumulative Exam Questions

Exam Answer Key

Chasing Vermeer Exam Answer Key

Chasing Vermeer

Before You Read

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