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The 39 Clues: Unstoppable #1
Nowhere to Run
The Cahill family has a secret. For five hundred years, they have guarded the 39 Clues – thirty-nine ingredients in a serum that transforms whomever takes it into the most powerful person on earth. If the serum got into the wrong hands, the disaster would rock the world. So certain Cahills have always made it their mission to keep the serum safe, buried, locked away. Until now.
Thirteen-year-old Dan Cahill and his older sister, Amy, are the latest guardians of the Clues. They think they’ve done everything right, but a tiny mistake leads to catastrophe. The serum is missing and Dan and Amy have to get it back and stop who stole it . . . before it’s game over. For everyone.
Thirteen-year-old Dan Cahill and his older sister, Amy, are the latest guardians of the Clues. They think they’ve done everything right, but a tiny mistake leads to catastrophe. The serum is missing and Dan and Amy have to get it back and stop who stole it . . . before it’s game over. For everyone.
266 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2013
222 people are currently reading
3564 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 227 reviews
December 26, 2013
I've read all the 39 clues series, and I have to say this: it needs to end. The authors keep dragging it out,plucking up old characters and shoving in new villains. Amy is the leader of the Cahills (no shock there) and yet, she's so scared of Pierce? And Pierce... he's just... weird. Stealing the serum, trying to take over the world... eliminating the Cahills... does this sound new to anyone? And Amy and Dan are so scared of him, so shocked that someone finally got to their little family secret. Didn't they just face the Vespers, who had the exact same goal in mind? I know that these authors, (and probably some of the readers, too) don't want this beloved series to go, but it's just so cliche now. I mean, Pierce has spoiled children (JUST like Isabel) and they probably will turn out to be good in the end (JUST like Ian and Natalie did.) And Nellie? I love Nellie, but, doesn't she have anything else to do with her life? Like college? I know she's supposed to be this awesome nanny who kicks butt all the time (and trust me, she is) but there a things in life everyone has to do. I know I'll be reading the rest of this series just because I want to see how it's going to go, but I'm pretty sure this one will be 'ok'. Not the best, but not the worst. We have to see, though.
February 14, 2025
Jude Watson has to be one of the most remarkable and memorable authors in this overall conglomerate of writing they’ve developed for this series. I mean starting off initially worrying this long ran and emotionally impactful story would just be kept going for just book writings sake. But even now as I’m venturing into the second official spinoff series of the franchise I still find myself worrying and at the same time biting at the bit to be able to join these remarkable kids on journeys that not only educate but also seem both real and fantastical at the same time. What a fantastic start and jump into the first book of this series.
August 27, 2016
SPOILERS FOR THIS BOOK AND EARLIER 39 CLUES BOOKS!
I feel like the series should have ended a long time ago. As in, at the last book of the first series. It's dragging on for far too long, and they're probably going to come up with a fourth series. The second series started off okay, but it got worse towards the end, and Day of Doom was just a failure. I guess some people thought that since one of the original authors was writing this book, it would be better and not so OOC (out of character), but that's not the case. This book is almost as bad as Day of Doom, but not quite.
What I liked about the book:
IAN! He's kind of been in the background for most of the second series, but now he's back! Unfortunately, there's still not much Amian, but Chapter 21 was so sad, because it talks about how Ian feels lonely after Natalie's death, and is jealous of Jake.
Also, I think there's a new ship: Sammy/Nellie. Sammy, by the way, is this grad student who is a Cahill, and he was the one who helped Dan make the serum in Day of Doom. He and Nellie discuss food. Okay, maybe it's not that exciting, but still!
Pony is also pretty cool. He's a nerdy hacker that is hired to make the Cahills' network more secure or something like that. I'm not completely sure. Anyway, nothing else about the book was particularly good.
What I disliked about the book:
Most of it. Amy is just deteriorating into an annoying character who makes bad decisions and is overemotional when it comes to Jake. And Jake is the worst character ever. Not only did the writers have to put Evan in the 2nd series, they also had to add "intense, charismatic" Jake.
It's clear that Ian doesn't have a chance with Amy, proven with a quote from the book: "She (Amy) remembered when those dark expressive eyes (Ian's) would make her quiver inside, when being this close would make her blush and stammer. Not anymore, though." And here's another quote, just to emphasize the point: "He'd (Ian) gotten, well... jealous. Jealous of the way Amy suddenly had eyes for nobody but Jake and was trying so hard to hide it." You guys, Amian is really, truly dead! And anyway, considering everything that's happened, Ian deserves much better than Amy, the girl whose first boyfriend, Evan, died for her thinking that she still was faithful to him, while she and Jake were confessing their love for each other in a closet on a train.
Also, Jonah says YOLO. This just shows how badly the authors fail at trying to include teen culture in their books. And YOLO is the one of the most annoying things ever.
The random pictures scattered throughout the book were also not very professional. And by that I mean that it looks like little effort was put into making the photos look realistic. The magazine covers look really fake.
The new enemy is just so contrived and has a really terrible name. J. Rutherford Pierce. Makes you tremble in fear, right? And he wants to start another World War for some reason. Again, this is just a bad attempt at dragging on the 39 Clues world.
A few last thoughts on the book:
At this point, the only original characters I still like are Ian, Nellie, and Hamilton. Honestly, reading the rest of the series isn't worth my time, but I'll probably still end up reading every 39 Clues book. But remember, there are still amazing fanfictions out there that are so much better than the newer books could ever be.
This review is also on my blog: aafubbaia.blogspot.com
I feel like the series should have ended a long time ago. As in, at the last book of the first series. It's dragging on for far too long, and they're probably going to come up with a fourth series. The second series started off okay, but it got worse towards the end, and Day of Doom was just a failure. I guess some people thought that since one of the original authors was writing this book, it would be better and not so OOC (out of character), but that's not the case. This book is almost as bad as Day of Doom, but not quite.
What I liked about the book:
IAN! He's kind of been in the background for most of the second series, but now he's back! Unfortunately, there's still not much Amian, but Chapter 21 was so sad, because it talks about how Ian feels lonely after Natalie's death, and is jealous of Jake.
Also, I think there's a new ship: Sammy/Nellie. Sammy, by the way, is this grad student who is a Cahill, and he was the one who helped Dan make the serum in Day of Doom. He and Nellie discuss food. Okay, maybe it's not that exciting, but still!
Pony is also pretty cool. He's a nerdy hacker that is hired to make the Cahills' network more secure or something like that. I'm not completely sure. Anyway, nothing else about the book was particularly good.
What I disliked about the book:
Most of it. Amy is just deteriorating into an annoying character who makes bad decisions and is overemotional when it comes to Jake. And Jake is the worst character ever. Not only did the writers have to put Evan in the 2nd series, they also had to add "intense, charismatic" Jake.
It's clear that Ian doesn't have a chance with Amy, proven with a quote from the book: "She (Amy) remembered when those dark expressive eyes (Ian's) would make her quiver inside, when being this close would make her blush and stammer. Not anymore, though." And here's another quote, just to emphasize the point: "He'd (Ian) gotten, well... jealous. Jealous of the way Amy suddenly had eyes for nobody but Jake and was trying so hard to hide it." You guys, Amian is really, truly dead! And anyway, considering everything that's happened, Ian deserves much better than Amy, the girl whose first boyfriend, Evan, died for her thinking that she still was faithful to him, while she and Jake were confessing their love for each other in a closet on a train.
Also, Jonah says YOLO. This just shows how badly the authors fail at trying to include teen culture in their books. And YOLO is the one of the most annoying things ever.
The random pictures scattered throughout the book were also not very professional. And by that I mean that it looks like little effort was put into making the photos look realistic. The magazine covers look really fake.
The new enemy is just so contrived and has a really terrible name. J. Rutherford Pierce. Makes you tremble in fear, right? And he wants to start another World War for some reason. Again, this is just a bad attempt at dragging on the 39 Clues world.
A few last thoughts on the book:
At this point, the only original characters I still like are Ian, Nellie, and Hamilton. Honestly, reading the rest of the series isn't worth my time, but I'll probably still end up reading every 39 Clues book. But remember, there are still amazing fanfictions out there that are so much better than the newer books could ever be.
This review is also on my blog: aafubbaia.blogspot.com
March 9, 2026
I feel tricked that the person at the book store told me this was the first book in the entire 39 Clues series... because it wasn't. So, yes, I was lost.
Standing alone... it kind of works. You get enough back story, but I really needed the first series to feel good in it. I think a middle grade reader probably wouldn't care, so for them I think this would be okay.
For me... I still want the original series.
So, it's a solid 3. It's good, but it didn't blow my socks off, but I think middle graders will like it.
Standing alone... it kind of works. You get enough back story, but I really needed the first series to feel good in it. I think a middle grade reader probably wouldn't care, so for them I think this would be okay.
For me... I still want the original series.
So, it's a solid 3. It's good, but it didn't blow my socks off, but I think middle graders will like it.
March 13, 2023
It starts, yet again. But who are they up against now?
Assassination attempts and public smear campaign is what seems Amy and Dan are facing now. But who is targeting them this time? Cahills are reunited and Vespers are gone, right?
I would like the final one to have an epilogue of their happy ending. I know that wouldn't be too exciting as a whole book, but I figure they deserve it. They've been through enough, maybe their adulthood would finally be uneventful.
Assassination attempts and public smear campaign is what seems Amy and Dan are facing now. But who is targeting them this time? Cahills are reunited and Vespers are gone, right?
I would like the final one to have an epilogue of their happy ending. I know that wouldn't be too exciting as a whole book, but I figure they deserve it. They've been through enough, maybe their adulthood would finally be uneventful.
January 12, 2014
”What kind of family draws in an innocent kid and makes him the target of murderers?”
Amy and Dan finally thought that it would be over, that the threat to their family was gone via the destruction of the Vespers. But a new threat has arisen: J. Rutherford Pierce. This presidential candidate has framed the Cahill kids through his media corporation and has taken the serum that the Cahills have sworn to protect to take control of the country! Now it’s a race against time to stop Pierce from winning thru an antidote to the serum! But how can they make an antidote from things that have been missing…for centuries?
I honestly didn’t think that there would be a 3rd series. But this book was awesome!! I wouldn’t have thought that the serum would have an antidote, but it gives the kids another challenge! The plot was excellent because of all the action and surprising revelations. I found myself holding my breath at some suspenseful parts. The writing was also excellent, a step up from Day of Doom.
I loved the new characters! Jude introduced them spectacularly, especially the hacker! The climax and ending were certainly a mystery; I wonder who helped them and if it will be revealed in the future…
Puzzle answers below!
Helmet Front Cover:
Helmet Inside Cover:
Pages:
Amy and Dan finally thought that it would be over, that the threat to their family was gone via the destruction of the Vespers. But a new threat has arisen: J. Rutherford Pierce. This presidential candidate has framed the Cahill kids through his media corporation and has taken the serum that the Cahills have sworn to protect to take control of the country! Now it’s a race against time to stop Pierce from winning thru an antidote to the serum! But how can they make an antidote from things that have been missing…for centuries?
I honestly didn’t think that there would be a 3rd series. But this book was awesome!! I wouldn’t have thought that the serum would have an antidote, but it gives the kids another challenge! The plot was excellent because of all the action and surprising revelations. I found myself holding my breath at some suspenseful parts. The writing was also excellent, a step up from Day of Doom.
I loved the new characters! Jude introduced them spectacularly, especially the hacker! The climax and ending were certainly a mystery; I wonder who helped them and if it will be revealed in the future…
Puzzle answers below!
Helmet Front Cover:
Helmet Inside Cover:
Pages:
September 8, 2013
I have been reading books from the 39 Clues franchise for a long time. A LONG time. Since 1st grade actually. Then there was the Cahills vs. Vespers extension. Now a new series in the franchise is going to begin; the Unstoppable series. Thanks to NetGalley and Scholastic, I was able to obtain this book, Nowhere to Run, before its release date, October 1st.
The franchise has lasted for years. Just when you think that Amy and Dan, the main characters in the series are going to have a normal life and the series is over, the authors release another extension. I have stuck with the series for as long as it has been out. And with good reason, because the books are really cool.
I feel the authors of the series have been using the same formula each book, except each book has its own little twist. Just like all the other books in the franchise, in Nowhere to Run the Cahills are at a disadvantage of some sort and there are about three life threatening situations that Dan and Amy are in that they barely make out of alive. Also, there is some anonymous person you have never met yet who helps them defeat the villain. But, what is new about this book is that the life threatening situations are different than the others. Also, they are in situations that are not just somebody shooting them with a gun. More like trying to push them off a building under construction on a REALLY HIGH FLOOR! I find that cool because all the drama is unique.
Around the book, there are a lot of clues about what is going to happen later in the book, so by the end I have a picture of what is going to happen. I mostly knew what was going to happen, but it was still interesting.
I rate this book 8 out of 10. The reason is because I wish the authors could change the formula. Besides the formula, the book is awesome. If you liked the previous books, you will probably like this one. Even though I have been reading these books since 1st grade, I will probably still read the rest.
The franchise has lasted for years. Just when you think that Amy and Dan, the main characters in the series are going to have a normal life and the series is over, the authors release another extension. I have stuck with the series for as long as it has been out. And with good reason, because the books are really cool.
I feel the authors of the series have been using the same formula each book, except each book has its own little twist. Just like all the other books in the franchise, in Nowhere to Run the Cahills are at a disadvantage of some sort and there are about three life threatening situations that Dan and Amy are in that they barely make out of alive. Also, there is some anonymous person you have never met yet who helps them defeat the villain. But, what is new about this book is that the life threatening situations are different than the others. Also, they are in situations that are not just somebody shooting them with a gun. More like trying to push them off a building under construction on a REALLY HIGH FLOOR! I find that cool because all the drama is unique.
Around the book, there are a lot of clues about what is going to happen later in the book, so by the end I have a picture of what is going to happen. I mostly knew what was going to happen, but it was still interesting.
I rate this book 8 out of 10. The reason is because I wish the authors could change the formula. Besides the formula, the book is awesome. If you liked the previous books, you will probably like this one. Even though I have been reading these books since 1st grade, I will probably still read the rest.
December 27, 2021
This is absolutely GENIUS!!! I mean all the books in the series are but this one actually met the consequences that exist in reality. The characters, my old besties are sooooooo relatable and realistic that it is getting harder to imagine them as anything but ordinary. The places are literally a school fieldtrip with the added action and mystery. I love how it lays the groundwork for the whole series as beautifully as a first book should. I CAN'T WAIT TO FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENS NEXT !!!
October 17, 2013
May 31, 2013:
Well, after reading the first 40 or so pages on the 39 Clues Website (aka reading the preview after my little brother finished the mission...) I can safely say that there are a lot of new developments. That said, do NOT read until you've read the preview, or else, be prepared for spoilers. Nothing major though :)
Okay, so let's see...here's a synopsis:
1. Opens with some unknown family whose children are amazing and pushed to do a bunch of activities
2. Amy and Dan attend the funerals of their relatives who were killed of by Baldacci in the previous book
3. They almost get buried alive in a grave
4. They try and figure out who tried to kill them
5. Find somebody and decide to investigate (obviously somebody who is a part of that unknown family)
6. Preview ends with a cliffhanger (they just landed on top of a moving elevator at a construction site if you're wondering)
What I think:
WHAT IS GOING ONNNNNN?!?!? There are new villains who seem to have perfect prodigy children (probably because the Vesper Council was...umm...well...obliterated or turned goody-goody). No family members except for Amy, Dan, and Aunt Beatrice (remember her?) show up for the funeral...whaaaat? And here I thought that the whole family unity thing was starting the work out.
Overall, I'm intrigued. It's an improvement from Day of Doom (no character butchering...yet). An old bit of Amy is back (YES!) and a small part of me is really hoping that I'll enjoy this when it comes out (WRITE FASTER PLEASE!!!!). We'll see :)
***EDIT***
AHHHHH!! Okay so I've finally read all of it! I'm still trying to gather my thoughts on it at this point, but it's a definite improvement from Day of Doom. So much emotion! My only problem is that it ended with a cliffhanger...as usual...
***EDIT*** October 17, 2013:
So...where to even begin? To all of you who read Day of Doom and hated it like I did, you will be shocked at how much better this one is. Jude Watson really did a wonderful job trying to fix the mistakes from Day of Doom and account for the consequences of that failure (like character deaths and such). Character analysis first!
Amy: What a relief, she’s definitely not the person she was in Day of Doom. However, I wouldn’t say that she went back to her old self completely either. She’s got an edge to her and is more authoritative (like when telling Jake and Atticus that they have to leave) which is extremely understandable given what she’s gone through. I like how Jude Watson makes Amy take a step back from romance because that displays her logical side and her tendency to over analyze things. Plus it gives us a break from, as Dan might say, mushy-gushy nonsense and lets us focus on the action. She’s being slightly overprotective though. I realize that she feel guilty about Evan’s death still and that guilt makes you irrational, but still. Like Ian says, “We’re Cahills. We’re in this together.” She needs to let other people have a say and she can’t keep them out of danger forever. She needs to realize that they know what they’re getting into and that not everybody in contact with her is going to instantly die. Despite that, Amy is definitely making a huge comeback :)
Grace: While she isn’t physically there, it’s wonderful how the authors have tried to link her presence throughout the books. Her little notes and hints always make me shake my head. It’s like she was able to see the future or something. George the Goldfish haha :P
Dan: When he cracks a joke 11 pages in, I definitely let out a sigh of relief. And even though at the moment, Dan says that he wants out of the Cahill life as soon as it’s all over, I’m not sure if that’s going to be true. For one thing, he’s closer than close with Amy and it’s obvious that Amy isn’t going to drop out. Also, if you consider the pressure on him, it’s the obvious conclusion, but I don’t think that Dan’s the kind of person who would or even could leave his family behind. He’s not Fiske, and even so, Fiske is definitely deeply involved with the Cahills now anyways. In this book, Dan reflects a lot on his past decisions and while he’s definitely aged mentally it’s awesome to see him laugh and fool around. I feel so bad for him though, especially after the scene on the bridge. He’s been thrust into harrowing circumstances and he doesn’t deserve it.
Nellie: is back! Raving about exotic foods? Check. Talking in as if stuck in her own world? Check. Being completely awesome, risk-taking and a completely crazy driver? Check, check and check. I love her snarkiness “You can seriously jeopardize the plans for the Grace Cahill Wing that’s scheduled to open in two years. Or you can look the other way for exactly five minutes.” Typically, I’d consider that bad behavior, but hey, life and death situations call for drastic measures. I can’t believe that Jude Watson is making us wait until the next book for her “interview” though! Eh and romance between Nellie and Sammy? Not sure if I approve yet.
Fiske: I feel bad for him. Once upon a time, he fled the Cahill scene, traveling with the blessing of Grace. Then, he was thrown headfirst back into the Cahill life with basically no choice and now, he’s stuck in an Institute. He’s much better as a father figure than as the snarky man he was in Day of Doom. As Amy says, as usual, he’s one step ahead of them and like Grace, even when he can’t be with them physically, he’s caring for them anyways.
Ian: Can I just say that I loved, loved, loved how his emotions were displayed in this book? So basically his mom’s dead, his little sister’s dead and his dad is basically not on the planet as far as he’s concerned. Lonely describes his whole life at the moment. Jude Watson’s portrayal of his feelings, slip-ups, needs and wants are amazing (all hidden under witty and sarcastic remarks in front of other people of course). Ian has never had an insecure side shown to us readers before, but now that it has been, it’s so obvious. He has fears and he is 100% human. The only thing I didn’t really like were his interactions with Amy. Does he still have a crush on her or was he simply trying to make Jake jealous? Hmmmm...
Jake: Well, it’s been obvious all along that he’s a very possessive and perhaps a sort-of selfish person. I hate how he doesn’t trust Amy very much. He’s just so stubborn and maybe too blinded by his feelings to realize that she’s trying to protect him and that she is never going to get together with Ian. In fact, I feel like Jake and Ian could be friends in another world. Maybe they will be later on.
Atticus: When it comes to Amy, Atticus is surprisingly perceptive. Well, actually not very surprising but you know what I mean. Unfortunately, Jake shuts him out too. I really missed Atticus’s extensible knowledge and appreciation of Dan’s view of history so that was really nice to see in this book :)
Jonah: As cool and hip as ever. Thank god, there was no mention of his apparently horrible singing. In fact, his music saved the day!
Hamilton: Again, like with Ian, nice take on his insecurities and the side he doesn’t show to outsiders. Yes, he’s an overweight, bulky American, but he’s Hamilton Holt. He’s far from dumb and is like a huge teddy bear. And hey, you know a dude’s awesome when he scoffs when he’s informed that he’s about to head for the mountains to track a leopard.
Fiona: Love her. I mean seriously, she told Ian that he wasn’t in Meenalappa when he was standing right there. Her personality is super chill and you can tell that she’s really protective of the people she loves.
Pierce: He takes the idea of an underhanded politician to a whole new level. I feel like he’s feeding off of his own insecurities. I’m not quite sure how that built up into plans to basically taking over the world, but we’ll find out soon enough I suppose. He just demonstrates how far money can bring people if used the right way. It’s despicable.
Cara and Galt: You can’t help but feel bad for them. I kind-of sense that they might go against their dad in the end, but that may just be wishful thinking.
Pony: Hahaha love this kid. Of course, he takes the meaning of “geeky” to a whole new level, but still! He talks in his own language, is one of the best hackers ever and is only about nineteen! Pretty amazing. Especially his idea with the music and dancing at the very end. That probably saved all of their lives. The guy’s like a drowning puppy though. Jonah just gained himself another dedicated fan.
April May: Yes! I’m so glad that we’re going to be hearing from her in the future. I love how everyone keeps referring to the hacker as a “he” and it turns out to be a girl. Oh my god, her parents make me laugh. Seriously? “There was no privacy in her household. The one time she tried to keep a diary, her father read it, then returned it with his own corrections in red pen. Her mother copied it and sent it to her therapist so she could discuss April’s problems.” Weirdos. The way she views the world is so unique. She calls the digital world a “shadow world,” a place where you can be anonymous and free. However, she does have her limit and only targets people she doesn’t like which I respect. She doesn’t blindly take orders and she’s obviously smart through the way she analyzed the scene recorded by the CCTV cameras. She may be stuck in her computer world, but unlike the stereotype, she’s obviously very familiar with social cues and emotions.
Bhaile Anois. Such a beautiful name. It means “home now” by the way. It’s so symbolic and everything. Of course Grace would choose the birthplace of Olivia Cahill to be the safe house :)
Thank you Jude Watson for bringing in the outside world! It had been bothering me for a long time that nobody in the books had been mentioning a lot of things outside of their hunt. Now, Amy and Dan are being framed by the press as the rich, spoiled brats who steal and do violent things for kicks. Brilliant. All big names have some dirt written about them and it was obvious that Amy and Dan couldn’t have hidden away from the news forever.
My absolute favorite scene by far was April May analyzing the CCTV feed of the flash mob. The emotions, the needle pressing against Amy’s neck, Dan’s emotion, the dancing, it was just all too good. Then she decides to do some fieldwork to investigate Pierce’s lies.
One last comment: the leopard whiskers. So, Amy finds the whiskers in the cave with a “caramel colored” shard of stone clinging to them. The Museum of Historical and Ancient Curiosities loses it’s collection of leopard whiskers preserved in amber. Coincidence? I think not. Somebody is helping the Cahills and it’s not a leopard who magically left exactly six whiskers behind. April May’s idea of “fieldwork” or is it another long-lost family member?
Of course, when there’s an awfully powerful serum loose in the world, there must be an antidote. Earlier, I was questioning the necessity of a third series, but I suppose that it’s a good thing. Not only does it give the other authors to fix what happened in Day of Doom, but it also provides more closure. Leaving the serum out there was too inconclusive. There were too many possibilities. So all I have left to say is that I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next book :) I hope that you all enjoyed this book as much as I did!
Well, after reading the first 40 or so pages on the 39 Clues Website (aka reading the preview after my little brother finished the mission...) I can safely say that there are a lot of new developments. That said, do NOT read until you've read the preview, or else, be prepared for spoilers. Nothing major though :)
Okay, so let's see...here's a synopsis:
1. Opens with some unknown family whose children are amazing and pushed to do a bunch of activities
2. Amy and Dan attend the funerals of their relatives who were killed of by Baldacci in the previous book
3. They almost get buried alive in a grave
4. They try and figure out who tried to kill them
5. Find somebody and decide to investigate (obviously somebody who is a part of that unknown family)
6. Preview ends with a cliffhanger (they just landed on top of a moving elevator at a construction site if you're wondering)
What I think:
WHAT IS GOING ONNNNNN?!?!? There are new villains who seem to have perfect prodigy children (probably because the Vesper Council was...umm...well...obliterated or turned goody-goody). No family members except for Amy, Dan, and Aunt Beatrice (remember her?) show up for the funeral...whaaaat? And here I thought that the whole family unity thing was starting the work out.
Overall, I'm intrigued. It's an improvement from Day of Doom (no character butchering...yet). An old bit of Amy is back (YES!) and a small part of me is really hoping that I'll enjoy this when it comes out (WRITE FASTER PLEASE!!!!). We'll see :)
***EDIT***
AHHHHH!! Okay so I've finally read all of it! I'm still trying to gather my thoughts on it at this point, but it's a definite improvement from Day of Doom. So much emotion! My only problem is that it ended with a cliffhanger...as usual...
***EDIT*** October 17, 2013:
So...where to even begin? To all of you who read Day of Doom and hated it like I did, you will be shocked at how much better this one is. Jude Watson really did a wonderful job trying to fix the mistakes from Day of Doom and account for the consequences of that failure (like character deaths and such). Character analysis first!
Amy: What a relief, she’s definitely not the person she was in Day of Doom. However, I wouldn’t say that she went back to her old self completely either. She’s got an edge to her and is more authoritative (like when telling Jake and Atticus that they have to leave) which is extremely understandable given what she’s gone through. I like how Jude Watson makes Amy take a step back from romance because that displays her logical side and her tendency to over analyze things. Plus it gives us a break from, as Dan might say, mushy-gushy nonsense and lets us focus on the action. She’s being slightly overprotective though. I realize that she feel guilty about Evan’s death still and that guilt makes you irrational, but still. Like Ian says, “We’re Cahills. We’re in this together.” She needs to let other people have a say and she can’t keep them out of danger forever. She needs to realize that they know what they’re getting into and that not everybody in contact with her is going to instantly die. Despite that, Amy is definitely making a huge comeback :)
Grace: While she isn’t physically there, it’s wonderful how the authors have tried to link her presence throughout the books. Her little notes and hints always make me shake my head. It’s like she was able to see the future or something. George the Goldfish haha :P
Dan: When he cracks a joke 11 pages in, I definitely let out a sigh of relief. And even though at the moment, Dan says that he wants out of the Cahill life as soon as it’s all over, I’m not sure if that’s going to be true. For one thing, he’s closer than close with Amy and it’s obvious that Amy isn’t going to drop out. Also, if you consider the pressure on him, it’s the obvious conclusion, but I don’t think that Dan’s the kind of person who would or even could leave his family behind. He’s not Fiske, and even so, Fiske is definitely deeply involved with the Cahills now anyways. In this book, Dan reflects a lot on his past decisions and while he’s definitely aged mentally it’s awesome to see him laugh and fool around. I feel so bad for him though, especially after the scene on the bridge. He’s been thrust into harrowing circumstances and he doesn’t deserve it.
Nellie: is back! Raving about exotic foods? Check. Talking in as if stuck in her own world? Check. Being completely awesome, risk-taking and a completely crazy driver? Check, check and check. I love her snarkiness “You can seriously jeopardize the plans for the Grace Cahill Wing that’s scheduled to open in two years. Or you can look the other way for exactly five minutes.” Typically, I’d consider that bad behavior, but hey, life and death situations call for drastic measures. I can’t believe that Jude Watson is making us wait until the next book for her “interview” though! Eh and romance between Nellie and Sammy? Not sure if I approve yet.
Fiske: I feel bad for him. Once upon a time, he fled the Cahill scene, traveling with the blessing of Grace. Then, he was thrown headfirst back into the Cahill life with basically no choice and now, he’s stuck in an Institute. He’s much better as a father figure than as the snarky man he was in Day of Doom. As Amy says, as usual, he’s one step ahead of them and like Grace, even when he can’t be with them physically, he’s caring for them anyways.
Ian: Can I just say that I loved, loved, loved how his emotions were displayed in this book? So basically his mom’s dead, his little sister’s dead and his dad is basically not on the planet as far as he’s concerned. Lonely describes his whole life at the moment. Jude Watson’s portrayal of his feelings, slip-ups, needs and wants are amazing (all hidden under witty and sarcastic remarks in front of other people of course). Ian has never had an insecure side shown to us readers before, but now that it has been, it’s so obvious. He has fears and he is 100% human. The only thing I didn’t really like were his interactions with Amy. Does he still have a crush on her or was he simply trying to make Jake jealous? Hmmmm...
Jake: Well, it’s been obvious all along that he’s a very possessive and perhaps a sort-of selfish person. I hate how he doesn’t trust Amy very much. He’s just so stubborn and maybe too blinded by his feelings to realize that she’s trying to protect him and that she is never going to get together with Ian. In fact, I feel like Jake and Ian could be friends in another world. Maybe they will be later on.
Atticus: When it comes to Amy, Atticus is surprisingly perceptive. Well, actually not very surprising but you know what I mean. Unfortunately, Jake shuts him out too. I really missed Atticus’s extensible knowledge and appreciation of Dan’s view of history so that was really nice to see in this book :)
Jonah: As cool and hip as ever. Thank god, there was no mention of his apparently horrible singing. In fact, his music saved the day!
Hamilton: Again, like with Ian, nice take on his insecurities and the side he doesn’t show to outsiders. Yes, he’s an overweight, bulky American, but he’s Hamilton Holt. He’s far from dumb and is like a huge teddy bear. And hey, you know a dude’s awesome when he scoffs when he’s informed that he’s about to head for the mountains to track a leopard.
Fiona: Love her. I mean seriously, she told Ian that he wasn’t in Meenalappa when he was standing right there. Her personality is super chill and you can tell that she’s really protective of the people she loves.
Pierce: He takes the idea of an underhanded politician to a whole new level. I feel like he’s feeding off of his own insecurities. I’m not quite sure how that built up into plans to basically taking over the world, but we’ll find out soon enough I suppose. He just demonstrates how far money can bring people if used the right way. It’s despicable.
Cara and Galt: You can’t help but feel bad for them. I kind-of sense that they might go against their dad in the end, but that may just be wishful thinking.
Pony: Hahaha love this kid. Of course, he takes the meaning of “geeky” to a whole new level, but still! He talks in his own language, is one of the best hackers ever and is only about nineteen! Pretty amazing. Especially his idea with the music and dancing at the very end. That probably saved all of their lives. The guy’s like a drowning puppy though. Jonah just gained himself another dedicated fan.
April May: Yes! I’m so glad that we’re going to be hearing from her in the future. I love how everyone keeps referring to the hacker as a “he” and it turns out to be a girl. Oh my god, her parents make me laugh. Seriously? “There was no privacy in her household. The one time she tried to keep a diary, her father read it, then returned it with his own corrections in red pen. Her mother copied it and sent it to her therapist so she could discuss April’s problems.” Weirdos. The way she views the world is so unique. She calls the digital world a “shadow world,” a place where you can be anonymous and free. However, she does have her limit and only targets people she doesn’t like which I respect. She doesn’t blindly take orders and she’s obviously smart through the way she analyzed the scene recorded by the CCTV cameras. She may be stuck in her computer world, but unlike the stereotype, she’s obviously very familiar with social cues and emotions.
Bhaile Anois. Such a beautiful name. It means “home now” by the way. It’s so symbolic and everything. Of course Grace would choose the birthplace of Olivia Cahill to be the safe house :)
Thank you Jude Watson for bringing in the outside world! It had been bothering me for a long time that nobody in the books had been mentioning a lot of things outside of their hunt. Now, Amy and Dan are being framed by the press as the rich, spoiled brats who steal and do violent things for kicks. Brilliant. All big names have some dirt written about them and it was obvious that Amy and Dan couldn’t have hidden away from the news forever.
My absolute favorite scene by far was April May analyzing the CCTV feed of the flash mob. The emotions, the needle pressing against Amy’s neck, Dan’s emotion, the dancing, it was just all too good. Then she decides to do some fieldwork to investigate Pierce’s lies.
One last comment: the leopard whiskers. So, Amy finds the whiskers in the cave with a “caramel colored” shard of stone clinging to them. The Museum of Historical and Ancient Curiosities loses it’s collection of leopard whiskers preserved in amber. Coincidence? I think not. Somebody is helping the Cahills and it’s not a leopard who magically left exactly six whiskers behind. April May’s idea of “fieldwork” or is it another long-lost family member?
Of course, when there’s an awfully powerful serum loose in the world, there must be an antidote. Earlier, I was questioning the necessity of a third series, but I suppose that it’s a good thing. Not only does it give the other authors to fix what happened in Day of Doom, but it also provides more closure. Leaving the serum out there was too inconclusive. There were too many possibilities. So all I have left to say is that I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next book :) I hope that you all enjoyed this book as much as I did!
February 9, 2022
Estamos de volta!! Não sabia nada sobre essa temporada e estou bem empolgada para acompanhar esse novo desafio dos Cahill que não têm dois segundos de sossego na vida. Esse primeiro livro já nos introduz ao novo arco da história e nos guia para a primeira busca. É ótimo ver eles soltos de novo no mundo com todo mundo reunido se ajudando mesmo que a Amy continue com medo de colocar a vida dos outros em risco. A coitada da menina Amy segue sentindo um peso horrível de ser a chefe da família e é triste ver ela tentando se fazer de forte e tentando afastar os outros, torcendo para que ela note que eles se preocupam com ela e que é uma escolha deles estar ali por ela, ainda mais com os traumas cada vez aumentando mais.
August 30, 2020
Another wonderful installment in the 39 Clues series! I can't wait to continue the Unstoppable series.
January 7, 2026
at this point I'm reading this series for ian, dan, and hamilton and doing my best to ignore amy and that's just where we're at but this book is so 2013 it's delightful 😂
March 10, 2015
5 STARS
**This review might contain spoilers from the other two series**
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!
It just felt SO good to be back in the 39 clues world!
There has been so much character development in all the characters since the 1st and original series. Amy was initially so shy and scared of everything and now she's become badass and takes initiative, and she's the leader of the Cahill family! A lot of people think that it's stupid that Amy is still scared of Pierce after experiencing so many villains already but I don't think that's true. Just because something terrible has happened so many times, you don't get used to it. She's still just 16 years old and has the responsibility of the most powerful family in the world; of course she's ought to be scared.
The informational part of this book was as strong as ever and I learned quite a lot about Leonardo Da Vinci. There were times when I was laughing at Dan's jokes (which just never get old) and at Ian's brattiness, which, I hate to say, but has decreased quite a bit. He's still awesome af though.
Also, Jake. I have shipped Amy with Jake Rosenbloom since the minute Jake joins the gang and now FINALLY! Also, I really missed Nellie. <3
I cannot wait to start the next part, which, sadly, I don't own yet. SO I NEED TO GET IT!
I don't care if this book is considered childish, or too stretched out now, or some other weird-ass crap, I still love it.
ALSO,
IAN IS MY BÆ. SEEING HIM SO UPSET BREAKS MY HEART. :'(
•••
DON'T JUDGE ME BUT I LOVE THE 39 CLUES!
Yes, I'm 15 and yes, these are supposed to be Children's books, but I've been reading this since I was in 4th grade and I can't stop! They're just that good!
And even though this is the 3rd companion series and each series has like 10 parts and there's a 4th series about to come out, I'm going to continue reading woooo!
THANKS SO MUCH KOMAL FOR GETTING ME THIS! YOU KNOW HOW BAD I WANTED IT!
So I'll read this as soon as I can but at least it's there on my shelf now. But first, exams. >_<
**This review might contain spoilers from the other two series**
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!
It just felt SO good to be back in the 39 clues world!
There has been so much character development in all the characters since the 1st and original series. Amy was initially so shy and scared of everything and now she's become badass and takes initiative, and she's the leader of the Cahill family! A lot of people think that it's stupid that Amy is still scared of Pierce after experiencing so many villains already but I don't think that's true. Just because something terrible has happened so many times, you don't get used to it. She's still just 16 years old and has the responsibility of the most powerful family in the world; of course she's ought to be scared.
The informational part of this book was as strong as ever and I learned quite a lot about Leonardo Da Vinci. There were times when I was laughing at Dan's jokes (which just never get old) and at Ian's brattiness, which, I hate to say, but has decreased quite a bit. He's still awesome af though.
Also, Jake. I have shipped Amy with Jake Rosenbloom since the minute Jake joins the gang and now FINALLY! Also, I really missed Nellie. <3
I cannot wait to start the next part, which, sadly, I don't own yet. SO I NEED TO GET IT!
I don't care if this book is considered childish, or too stretched out now, or some other weird-ass crap, I still love it.
ALSO,
IAN IS MY BÆ. SEEING HIM SO UPSET BREAKS MY HEART. :'(
•••
DON'T JUDGE ME BUT I LOVE THE 39 CLUES!
Yes, I'm 15 and yes, these are supposed to be Children's books, but I've been reading this since I was in 4th grade and I can't stop! They're just that good!
And even though this is the 3rd companion series and each series has like 10 parts and there's a 4th series about to come out, I'm going to continue reading woooo!
THANKS SO MUCH KOMAL FOR GETTING ME THIS! YOU KNOW HOW BAD I WANTED IT!
So I'll read this as soon as I can but at least it's there on my shelf now. But first, exams. >_<
January 23, 2014
Well, what can I say. More unbelievable adventures for the Cahill kids. This time they're up against somebody unstoppable--someone who has taken the serum from the original 39 clues. Things are really getting even more unbelievable in this 3rd series--like how someone was able to figure out the ingredients from a miniscule amount left in the trap of a sink where Dan mixed it in the last series. I just wish these writers would leave poor Dan and Amy alone, let them go off into the sunset and live happily ever after. I mean, how many times do they have to save the world?
I really enjoyed the first series--I loved all the historical references that you could look up and find out if they were true or not. This series doesn't even have that to recommend it. But, I will probably listen to the rest of this series because I have a burning need to know what happened. Or maybe I'll find someone else whose read it and ask them.
I really enjoyed the first series--I loved all the historical references that you could look up and find out if they were true or not. This series doesn't even have that to recommend it. But, I will probably listen to the rest of this series because I have a burning need to know what happened. Or maybe I'll find someone else whose read it and ask them.
March 15, 2014
Just posted this review on my blog http://www.PriyankaReads.com - check out this and many more young adult book reviews and recommendations there.
===
Rating : 3.7 out of 5 stars
Recommended Age : 8 and up
The Unstoppable series seems like an impossible mission at first but as Jude Watson reveals tidbits of information, mission impossible becomes mission crazy ( even for a lunatic).
I liked the book at first but as it went on, there were some unnecessary details. I mean, if you have read the previous books, you might find that this book isn't quite up to the standard. The book though, has another one of the trademark 39 clue's cliffhangers.
Dan figures out that the serum was not completely destroyed and blames himself while Nellie discovers that a hacker is trying to access secure Cahill files. The book ends with a mysterious observation by Amy and she sends Jake and Atticus home.
The book is a perfect combination of the previous series and I hope to see more coming.
===
Rating : 3.7 out of 5 stars
Recommended Age : 8 and up
The Unstoppable series seems like an impossible mission at first but as Jude Watson reveals tidbits of information, mission impossible becomes mission crazy ( even for a lunatic).
I liked the book at first but as it went on, there were some unnecessary details. I mean, if you have read the previous books, you might find that this book isn't quite up to the standard. The book though, has another one of the trademark 39 clue's cliffhangers.
Dan figures out that the serum was not completely destroyed and blames himself while Nellie discovers that a hacker is trying to access secure Cahill files. The book ends with a mysterious observation by Amy and she sends Jake and Atticus home.
The book is a perfect combination of the previous series and I hope to see more coming.
October 10, 2013
Now we're getting back on track. After the abysmal finale that was Day of Doom, Jude Watson has begun this cycle of "The 39 Clues" with a bang and left us catching our breath. Of course there's a new danger out to take over the world, and of course Amy and Dan Cahill are our front line of defense. But these kids have changed over the past few years. They're both tougher and more fragile, knowing just how much they have to lose. And this new villain is unlike anyone they've faced before: a politician. Yikes!
Congratulations "39 Clues". You're officially back in my good graces.
Congratulations "39 Clues". You're officially back in my good graces.
June 27, 2014
An enjoyable read. An improvement from the last 39 Clues book, but it wasn't the best book ever. Jude Watson had way to much romance/jealousy in the book: with Ian the good guy, and Jake the bad guy. The first scene with Jake is him all upset over Ian talking to Amy. I really didn't feel the suspense of each time Amy and Dan were followed or almost died- maybe because the series has been going on for too long. I think it was the 7th book of the first 39 Clues series that they claimed they ran out of "luck." Now it's 10 books later and they still escape each life-or-death situation. Having said all that, I am still excited for the next book and hope for more adventures with Dan and Amy!
July 6, 2014
Read this in the hope that the Holts would have lead roles. Also, curious. Starts to get good at chapter 19. Not bad overall.
March 14, 2015
Awesome
May 5, 2016
read with my son.
December 21, 2016
Title: The 39 Clues: Unstoppable Book One: Nowhere to Run
Author: Jude Watson
Published: 10-1-2013
Publisher: Schoastic Inc.
Pages: 273
Genre: Children's Fiction
Sub Genre:
ISBN: 13-9780545521376
ASIN: B00C2YWJ2O
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
Rating: 4.5 Stars
.
I received a copy of The 39 Clues: Unstoppable Book One: Nowhere to Run from NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for my honest review.
From the publishers
The Cahill family has a secret. For five hundred years, they have guarded the 39 Clues -- thirty-nine ingredients in a serum that transforms whomever takes it into the most powerful person on earth. If the serum got into the wrong hands, the disaster would rock the world. So certain Cahills have always made it their mission to keep the serum safe, buried, locked away. Until now.
Tick Tock. Sixteen-year-old Amy Cahill only has few days to live. There’s a poison coursing through her, and her only chance is to collect ingredients for an antidote. Too bad the antidote ingredients are scattered around the world. And too bad that survival is by far Amy’s smallest problem.
Thirteen-year-old Dan Cahill and his older sister, Amy, are the latest guardians of the Clues. They think they’ve done everything right, but a tiny mistake leads to catastrophe. The serum is missing and Dan and Amy have to get it back and stop who stole it . . . before it’s game over. For everyone.
My review:
A reunion of old friends and some new ones. With the start of a new off shoot, 39 steps returns. Amy and Dan are as feisty and inventive as always. Now that the stakes are higher than ever it is good to see the author has shown their growing maturity. A wonderful plot that grabs readers a keeps their interest from the beginning to the very end. I was glad to the revitalization of this series, it is a favorite of my great nieces and nephews. My rating is 4.5 out 5 stars.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EV2OGJY/...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/reviews...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Author: Jude Watson
Published: 10-1-2013
Publisher: Schoastic Inc.
Pages: 273
Genre: Children's Fiction
Sub Genre:
ISBN: 13-9780545521376
ASIN: B00C2YWJ2O
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
Rating: 4.5 Stars
.
I received a copy of The 39 Clues: Unstoppable Book One: Nowhere to Run from NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for my honest review.
From the publishers
The Cahill family has a secret. For five hundred years, they have guarded the 39 Clues -- thirty-nine ingredients in a serum that transforms whomever takes it into the most powerful person on earth. If the serum got into the wrong hands, the disaster would rock the world. So certain Cahills have always made it their mission to keep the serum safe, buried, locked away. Until now.
Tick Tock. Sixteen-year-old Amy Cahill only has few days to live. There’s a poison coursing through her, and her only chance is to collect ingredients for an antidote. Too bad the antidote ingredients are scattered around the world. And too bad that survival is by far Amy’s smallest problem.
Thirteen-year-old Dan Cahill and his older sister, Amy, are the latest guardians of the Clues. They think they’ve done everything right, but a tiny mistake leads to catastrophe. The serum is missing and Dan and Amy have to get it back and stop who stole it . . . before it’s game over. For everyone.
My review:
A reunion of old friends and some new ones. With the start of a new off shoot, 39 steps returns. Amy and Dan are as feisty and inventive as always. Now that the stakes are higher than ever it is good to see the author has shown their growing maturity. A wonderful plot that grabs readers a keeps their interest from the beginning to the very end. I was glad to the revitalization of this series, it is a favorite of my great nieces and nephews. My rating is 4.5 out 5 stars.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EV2OGJY/...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/reviews...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
September 30, 2023
Review in draft mode:
The story-runners and the author of the last book dumped a mess on Jude Watson, and not only does she fix it, she uses parts of that mess to create some great character development.
In a lot of ways, this book is the most impressive considering what she had to work with and how she turned it around.
Maybe this book cements Jude as my favorite author in the series? Though Gordon Korman always manages to flip it back after I read one of his books. It's always back and forth between these two. And sadly Peter is out of the running since he does not have any other books in the series.
Reading this book is such a treat. I forgot how amazing it is to read a 39 clues books by one of the main authors, the last one being The Dead of Night by Peter. That was 3 books ago, including a pretty painful last book.
People who read the last series and are looking into this one, I would recommend reading this book as the actual finale to the series, just for some closures that were neglected for some of the developments in the last book.
SPOILER PART OF THE REVIEW.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
The death of the main characters of the last books were really poorly handled. and I appreciate Jude giving them the gravity and respect they deserved. Evan defending Amy one more time from beyond the grave was such a brilliant moment. I hoped that there be more about Amy processing Evan's death, but maybe that would have made the book more gloomy than what the story runners wanted.
I am most definitely over interpreting this, but some parts elicited feelings I had towards how the story runners are running things. A door being slammed in Amy's face = how the story runners handled Amy's romance and cheating. Dan saying 'I'm out of the Cahill family after this' feels like maybe what the original authors may have been feeling towards the series. Peter Larangis already stopped after The Dead of Night, Jude Watson only has one more book after this, as does Gordon Korman, the rest which are other 6, are all written by brand new authors. And brand new authors tend not to do that well in the series. In fact, from the last three Cahills vs Vespers series, I suspect they may not have read the series at all.
Review to be completed.
The story-runners and the author of the last book dumped a mess on Jude Watson, and not only does she fix it, she uses parts of that mess to create some great character development.
In a lot of ways, this book is the most impressive considering what she had to work with and how she turned it around.
Maybe this book cements Jude as my favorite author in the series? Though Gordon Korman always manages to flip it back after I read one of his books. It's always back and forth between these two. And sadly Peter is out of the running since he does not have any other books in the series.
Reading this book is such a treat. I forgot how amazing it is to read a 39 clues books by one of the main authors, the last one being The Dead of Night by Peter. That was 3 books ago, including a pretty painful last book.
People who read the last series and are looking into this one, I would recommend reading this book as the actual finale to the series, just for some closures that were neglected for some of the developments in the last book.
SPOILER PART OF THE REVIEW.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
The death of the main characters of the last books were really poorly handled. and I appreciate Jude giving them the gravity and respect they deserved. Evan defending Amy one more time from beyond the grave was such a brilliant moment. I hoped that there be more about Amy processing Evan's death, but maybe that would have made the book more gloomy than what the story runners wanted.
I am most definitely over interpreting this, but some parts elicited feelings I had towards how the story runners are running things. A door being slammed in Amy's face = how the story runners handled Amy's romance and cheating. Dan saying 'I'm out of the Cahill family after this' feels like maybe what the original authors may have been feeling towards the series. Peter Larangis already stopped after The Dead of Night, Jude Watson only has one more book after this, as does Gordon Korman, the rest which are other 6, are all written by brand new authors. And brand new authors tend not to do that well in the series. In fact, from the last three Cahills vs Vespers series, I suspect they may not have read the series at all.
Review to be completed.
August 8, 2022
This is my first foray into the 39 Clues world and I enjoyed it, though it was not as good as some other books I have read for this age group. In the opening book of this series, it appears as though the serum which allows a person to become the strongest person on Earth, the serum which Amy and Dan Cahill are in charge of guarding, has gone missing. Now Amy and Dan have to get it back.
The action is going from almost the very first page, and it doesn't let up throughout. Though I have serious doubts about the idea of two teenagers being the only protectors of a serum with the effects this one has, it certainly makes for an interesting action story. In addition, the character of Pierce as that archvillain was certainly one that seems centered in modern events. His megalomaniacal views, his training and use of his children as his operatives who will be just like him, and his consistent use of media to portray Amy and Dan Cahill in a very negative light to try and turn public opinion against them all seem very familiar after the last few years of living in America.
Though this book is a good opening of this individual series within the 39 Clues world, and I will likely read the other books in the Unstoppable series, I don't feel compelled to read the earlier series in the 39 Clues world. That is in part because of just how many there are in the overall series, and in part because of the formulaic feel of the series. It's okay for one series, but I think reading multiple series about the same two characters who don't seem to age - or at least age very little - in order to keep them in the same age range that will allow for more books to be written is a bit disingenuous.
This book ended on quite a cliffhanger, though, so I will likely continue this series - though I don't know that I will be particularly pressed to continue it soon. Listening to the audiobook version of this book, which was narrated by David Pittu, was a good listen. Pittu's performance was good, and he was easy to listen to, so when I do get around to continuing the series, I will likely do so by listening to the sequels.
The action is going from almost the very first page, and it doesn't let up throughout. Though I have serious doubts about the idea of two teenagers being the only protectors of a serum with the effects this one has, it certainly makes for an interesting action story. In addition, the character of Pierce as that archvillain was certainly one that seems centered in modern events. His megalomaniacal views, his training and use of his children as his operatives who will be just like him, and his consistent use of media to portray Amy and Dan Cahill in a very negative light to try and turn public opinion against them all seem very familiar after the last few years of living in America.
Though this book is a good opening of this individual series within the 39 Clues world, and I will likely read the other books in the Unstoppable series, I don't feel compelled to read the earlier series in the 39 Clues world. That is in part because of just how many there are in the overall series, and in part because of the formulaic feel of the series. It's okay for one series, but I think reading multiple series about the same two characters who don't seem to age - or at least age very little - in order to keep them in the same age range that will allow for more books to be written is a bit disingenuous.
This book ended on quite a cliffhanger, though, so I will likely continue this series - though I don't know that I will be particularly pressed to continue it soon. Listening to the audiobook version of this book, which was narrated by David Pittu, was a good listen. Pittu's performance was good, and he was easy to listen to, so when I do get around to continuing the series, I will likely do so by listening to the sequels.
August 2, 2025
Like a few people said already- at this point the books feel like they are milking them and dragging them on unnecessarily - they butcher the characters and they throw in a random repetitive villain with the same name - this time it's a rich guy who owns a ton of newspapers who tries to throw dirt on Dan and Amy and who tries to kill them after he gets the serum formula and serum from them making him, his family and his henchmen super enhanced and nearly immortal. It's a repetitive idea- he is almost the same as the Vespers but with a different name and for some reason Amy and Dan seem more scared of him than they were scared of Vespers who kidnapped their loved ones and weren't afraid of killing some of them - meanwhile this guy's henchmen are almost comical because they fail every single time they try to get Amy and Dan. Amy also suddenly becomes really paranoid and doesn't want any of the loved ones get hurt so she wants to do everything alone and pushes people away- which is a natural thing for her to happen since they are constantly in danger and things are constantly happening to them that are making them scared and paranoid - but that made her become annoying and unlikeable - and it's hard to enjoy a book where the main character is unlikeable. That being said this book was mainly the set up and it mainly sets the story up and introduces the villain - I am curious to see if his kids gets reformed and if he gets reformed. I did also like a few of the side characters like Ian getting more screen time and mentioning grieving for his sister and feeling lonely despite changing - which is interesting character development - too bad book never mentiones it again and never does anything with that information again - and Pony was an interesting new character too - too bad that he seems to be getting some character growth - that usually seems to mean that that character suddenly dies later which is annoying because I want to have strong characters with character growth stay around not die in the next few books like Evan and Natalie did. Hopefully the next few books get better - luckily there are only 4 in this series.
July 6, 2020
Dan Cahill and his sister, Amy, are the last of the Cahill family to be guardians of the fabled 39 clues. Those clues lead to 39 ingredients of a serum which, when taken, could transform a person into the most powerful human on the planet. The potential for the wrong person or persons to get a hold of this serum makes it dangerous. This is why the Cahill family has long had it as their mission to secure and protect each piece of the serum.
Dan and Amy have a problem on their hands now - the serum is missing. They have to find who stole it, find the serum, and get it back into hiding before something really bad happens.
How many books are there in the 39 Clues series? I am only slightly familiar with the series (I've read and reviewed one other book) which seems like a pretty good concept - secrets and clues and investigating ... this is precisely what so many younger readers enjoy. But how long can you milk a concept?
This story is okay. It moves along swiftly, should hold the average middle school reader's attention, but it does feel a bit formulaic as well. Dan and Amy seem like stock characters that you might find in just about any middle grade reader.
But this book isn't written for the likes of me. The target audience doesn't necessarily recognize stock characters because they don't have the reading experience. This should be just enough to capture the interest of a young reader, and, being a series, presumably hold on to the reader for awhile. But it's not likely that the reader will stay too committed to the series.
I'm in favor of any book that gets a youngster reading, but I'm also in favor of exposing a child to high quality.
Looking for a good book? Nowhere to Run, by Jude Watson, is part of the vast 39 Clues series. It could be an exciting story to young readers, but it's pretty formulaic and a little repetitive for someone with more reading experience.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, though Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Dan and Amy have a problem on their hands now - the serum is missing. They have to find who stole it, find the serum, and get it back into hiding before something really bad happens.
How many books are there in the 39 Clues series? I am only slightly familiar with the series (I've read and reviewed one other book) which seems like a pretty good concept - secrets and clues and investigating ... this is precisely what so many younger readers enjoy. But how long can you milk a concept?
This story is okay. It moves along swiftly, should hold the average middle school reader's attention, but it does feel a bit formulaic as well. Dan and Amy seem like stock characters that you might find in just about any middle grade reader.
But this book isn't written for the likes of me. The target audience doesn't necessarily recognize stock characters because they don't have the reading experience. This should be just enough to capture the interest of a young reader, and, being a series, presumably hold on to the reader for awhile. But it's not likely that the reader will stay too committed to the series.
I'm in favor of any book that gets a youngster reading, but I'm also in favor of exposing a child to high quality.
Looking for a good book? Nowhere to Run, by Jude Watson, is part of the vast 39 Clues series. It could be an exciting story to young readers, but it's pretty formulaic and a little repetitive for someone with more reading experience.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, though Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2023
📖Sin Escape📖
E iniciamos la 3ra Saga... Y EL AMBIENTE NO PUEDE SER MÁS SOMBRÍO.
En serio, es como una nube negra que tiene residencia permanente en Amy y Dan y además tiene imán y atrae a todos para estar en ese mood tan deprimente.
Pues bueno, aquí vemos algunas conclusiones y consecuencias tras la batalla VS los Vesper, Amy esta más neurótica qué nunca, Dan esta hecho papilla y se quiere salir de la familia LITERALMENTE y nuevamente tenemos la desgracia de que alguien (un tipejo mayor por cierto con familia y todo) a conseguido el tesoro familiar y logró escalar en la sociedad, ahora tiene mucho poder y tiene miedo de un par de chamacos así que quiere eliminarlos antes que ellos lo hagan.
Aquí sus amenazan son literales, y eso empujó a los Cahill a una casa segura y ahí descubrir una cura a la reliquia familiar.
Así que nuevamente se lanzan a la cacería, y aunque son consientes qué es muy peligroso (como todos los santos libros), qué necesitan apoyo y no pueden solos, el miedo se apodera de Amy y no permite que nadie le ayude (ni siquiera los Cahill o los Rosenbloom).
Al final y después de tanta pataleta de Amy, se reúnen los Cahill exploradores, los primos están de regreso!!!
Esta Saga... Me esta perdiendo, es solo el primer libro, pero veo con tristeza como la chispa se va apagando; Amy esta más loca, aprehensiva y sobreprotectora qué nunca y Dan se siente super culpable por dar la mínima oportunidad a que la reliquia oportunidad fuera robada. Este par esta más adentro qué afuera de su cabeza y tuvieron que llegar Ian y Jonah para inyectarle algo de alegria al libro. Atticus es super tierno y me alegro que Dan tenga un amigo como el, pero Jake volvió al estado como lo conocí... Y quizá poco más posesivo con Amy; en cuanto a Ian... Parece que Dan le pasó la estafeta y ahora se ve, se lee y parece un llanero solitario, necesitamos su chispa, sino esto no llegará a buen puerto.
Seguiré los demás libros, y espero que esto se componga...por el bien de mi hype.
E iniciamos la 3ra Saga... Y EL AMBIENTE NO PUEDE SER MÁS SOMBRÍO.
En serio, es como una nube negra que tiene residencia permanente en Amy y Dan y además tiene imán y atrae a todos para estar en ese mood tan deprimente.
Pues bueno, aquí vemos algunas conclusiones y consecuencias tras la batalla VS los Vesper, Amy esta más neurótica qué nunca, Dan esta hecho papilla y se quiere salir de la familia LITERALMENTE y nuevamente tenemos la desgracia de que alguien (un tipejo mayor por cierto con familia y todo) a conseguido el tesoro familiar y logró escalar en la sociedad, ahora tiene mucho poder y tiene miedo de un par de chamacos así que quiere eliminarlos antes que ellos lo hagan.
Aquí sus amenazan son literales, y eso empujó a los Cahill a una casa segura y ahí descubrir una cura a la reliquia familiar.
Así que nuevamente se lanzan a la cacería, y aunque son consientes qué es muy peligroso (como todos los santos libros), qué necesitan apoyo y no pueden solos, el miedo se apodera de Amy y no permite que nadie le ayude (ni siquiera los Cahill o los Rosenbloom).
Al final y después de tanta pataleta de Amy, se reúnen los Cahill exploradores, los primos están de regreso!!!
Esta Saga... Me esta perdiendo, es solo el primer libro, pero veo con tristeza como la chispa se va apagando; Amy esta más loca, aprehensiva y sobreprotectora qué nunca y Dan se siente super culpable por dar la mínima oportunidad a que la reliquia oportunidad fuera robada. Este par esta más adentro qué afuera de su cabeza y tuvieron que llegar Ian y Jonah para inyectarle algo de alegria al libro. Atticus es super tierno y me alegro que Dan tenga un amigo como el, pero Jake volvió al estado como lo conocí... Y quizá poco más posesivo con Amy; en cuanto a Ian... Parece que Dan le pasó la estafeta y ahora se ve, se lee y parece un llanero solitario, necesitamos su chispa, sino esto no llegará a buen puerto.
Seguiré los demás libros, y espero que esto se componga...por el bien de mi hype.
July 11, 2024
**2.5**
This was a rollercoaster of interest level. We were off to a good start in the beginning, then it seemed to drag out. Then picked up again, and dragged out some more
Aspects were not explained as well as they usually are. I have no idea what the trojan horse has to do with what they’re trying to do
- mr mcintyre’s funeral
- Gets to tell beatrice what to do
- Someone shoves amy and dan into the grave
- Nellie’s phone was hacked. Articles are being written to make amy and dan look bad
- pierce is the owner of the founders headquarters. Who owns the websites writing about the cahills
- Cops come. They’re wanted for embezzlement
- Thinking pierce has qualities if every cahill branch
- Dan meets with the guy that helped him make the serum
- He replicated the serum. But i thought he only had a portion of it
- Dan wants to leave the Cahills
- Find a rock with the Madrigal M. The area is where Olivia had lived
- Grace even prepared for of the serum got out
- Olivia may have been working on an antidote
- Ian comes to help
- Ian is getting lonely
- Amy yells at Jake to leave
- Met fiona not that long ago, went surfing and then left her
- Ian and Jake switched phone. Jake is now being tracked
- Nellie tries to convince the hacker defense guy to come with
- Finally got ahold of Jake. Tells him the bare bones of what’s happening
- More tabloids
- Decoded Olivia’s journal. Some ingredients for antidote don’t exist anymore
- April has been tracking Amy and Dan but is now wondering why
- Learn about the Trojan horse
- Saw Olivia’s eyes in a leopard. But didn’t find paw prints. Found boot prints. Is Olivia still alive??
- Exclusive: interview with Pierce as he is running for election
- He believes what founders say isn’t exactly what they meant
This was a rollercoaster of interest level. We were off to a good start in the beginning, then it seemed to drag out. Then picked up again, and dragged out some more
Aspects were not explained as well as they usually are. I have no idea what the trojan horse has to do with what they’re trying to do
- mr mcintyre’s funeral
- Gets to tell beatrice what to do
- Someone shoves amy and dan into the grave
- Nellie’s phone was hacked. Articles are being written to make amy and dan look bad
- pierce is the owner of the founders headquarters. Who owns the websites writing about the cahills
- Cops come. They’re wanted for embezzlement
- Thinking pierce has qualities if every cahill branch
- Dan meets with the guy that helped him make the serum
- He replicated the serum. But i thought he only had a portion of it
- Dan wants to leave the Cahills
- Find a rock with the Madrigal M. The area is where Olivia had lived
- Grace even prepared for of the serum got out
- Olivia may have been working on an antidote
- Ian comes to help
- Ian is getting lonely
- Amy yells at Jake to leave
- Met fiona not that long ago, went surfing and then left her
- Ian and Jake switched phone. Jake is now being tracked
- Nellie tries to convince the hacker defense guy to come with
- Finally got ahold of Jake. Tells him the bare bones of what’s happening
- More tabloids
- Decoded Olivia’s journal. Some ingredients for antidote don’t exist anymore
- April has been tracking Amy and Dan but is now wondering why
- Learn about the Trojan horse
- Saw Olivia’s eyes in a leopard. But didn’t find paw prints. Found boot prints. Is Olivia still alive??
- Exclusive: interview with Pierce as he is running for election
- He believes what founders say isn’t exactly what they meant
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2020
While I liked the concept this new series presents (an enemy that isn't related to the Cahills or Vespers, and has no real ties to them whatsoever), I still find myself wanting a little more? Maybe it's the lack of adults playing a role. Maybe it's the fact that Madison Holt is once again sidelined, rather than developed like all the other kids were in the first two series. It might also be that this book is rushed.
The 39 CLUES books have always been fast paced, though the number of books in each series allowed them to stretch the major plot out just enough that it never felt like we were racing through the story. 10 books for the clue hunt. 6 books for the less complicated, but still intricate Vespers plot. It just feels like they might've had too much to cram into the 4 books they were allotted?
Despite the pacing issues, I really did enjoy the story. I particularly found the friendship between new character Pony and Jonah to be refreshing, since I've always kind of felt that Jonah (and the Janus branch) have been overlooked a bit. Jonah and Hamilton's relationship in the last series was much needed, and this just further allows Jonah to develop into a strong voice of his own. Now, I do wish Ian was dealt with a little more. He's just gone through tragic and devastating loss, and his feeling felt glossed over, with the sheer amount of action the kids had to get up to, though I'm confident that there will be more room for it in the next few books.
I'm really curious where this will lead. It's the first 39 CLUES book I've read this year that wasn't a re-read, and I'm just so excited to be experiencing an unexplored Cahill story again!
The 39 CLUES books have always been fast paced, though the number of books in each series allowed them to stretch the major plot out just enough that it never felt like we were racing through the story. 10 books for the clue hunt. 6 books for the less complicated, but still intricate Vespers plot. It just feels like they might've had too much to cram into the 4 books they were allotted?
Despite the pacing issues, I really did enjoy the story. I particularly found the friendship between new character Pony and Jonah to be refreshing, since I've always kind of felt that Jonah (and the Janus branch) have been overlooked a bit. Jonah and Hamilton's relationship in the last series was much needed, and this just further allows Jonah to develop into a strong voice of his own. Now, I do wish Ian was dealt with a little more. He's just gone through tragic and devastating loss, and his feeling felt glossed over, with the sheer amount of action the kids had to get up to, though I'm confident that there will be more room for it in the next few books.
I'm really curious where this will lead. It's the first 39 CLUES book I've read this year that wasn't a re-read, and I'm just so excited to be experiencing an unexplored Cahill story again!
November 7, 2017
We’ve got some new Cahills in the house! And even you lot that were reluctant to get into the madhouse that is the 39 Clues, aren’t you glad you took the plunge? Now, I won’t spoil the secrets for you here since I know there are still some of you ploughing your way through the first series, but let me just say how thrilled I am que vous avez adopté cette merveilleuse série! This is one of my all-time faves because j’adore l’histoire, la géographie, l’aventure, et les mystères … and, of course, you know me and codes! Remember: don’t cheat! No looking up how to solve the codes in the books or on the cards posted on the classroom walls. Just enjoy the ride!
In case you thought Watson’s name was familiar, you were right! Jude Watson is also the author of the following books in the 39 Clues series: Beyond the Grave, In Too Deep, and A King’s Ransom, as well as a story in Vesper’s Rising. Oh yeah, and like all Cahills, Jude Watson is not really Jude Watson. I mean, she is, but she is also Judy Blundell. Don’t you just love the Cahill family?
In case you thought Watson’s name was familiar, you were right! Jude Watson is also the author of the following books in the 39 Clues series: Beyond the Grave, In Too Deep, and A King’s Ransom, as well as a story in Vesper’s Rising. Oh yeah, and like all Cahills, Jude Watson is not really Jude Watson. I mean, she is, but she is also Judy Blundell. Don’t you just love the Cahill family?
April 3, 2018
I found this book because i like mystery.This book was full of that.The setting changes many times but it does great clearly stating were you are.The biggest idea is that as serum made of 39 things .it is the most powerful thing in the world and has been kept safe by cahills. until it is stolen by someone they thought was dead.
I liked it because it was full of twists and you wouldn't expect.What i didn't like is that they had way to many pages.People who like mystery or plot turns would like this book.This book is great just that they need to stop adding so many of the books its to much to read and i don't have enough time so i cant read all of them
This book would be recommended to anyone who likes long series and want to read for a long time and also if you like books that are very adventurous that can be very exiting and fun
I liked it because it was full of twists and you wouldn't expect.What i didn't like is that they had way to many pages.People who like mystery or plot turns would like this book.This book is great just that they need to stop adding so many of the books its to much to read and i don't have enough time so i cant read all of them
This book would be recommended to anyone who likes long series and want to read for a long time and also if you like books that are very adventurous that can be very exiting and fun
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