What do you think?
Rate this book
Billions to Burn
National Treasure gets a Harlem Renaissance twist in this epic adventure through New York City, filled with history, humor, and heart
Twelve-year-old Zeus Jones is just about the only person in the world who believes in his grandfather’s stories about the Harlem Renaissance. To be fair, they are a bit far-fetched. After all, what are the chances that there was a renowned magazine called Burn! whose headquarters literally burned down, destroying almost every single copy? And who would believe that a secret page was actually hidden amongst the ashes, said to be the key to unlocking a lost fortune? No one, that’s who.
But when Zeus accidentally stumbles upon the secret page on the same day that his grandfather disappears without a trace, he finally has proof that his grandfather’s stories are more than just stories—they’re real. And now he knows that the secret page is more than just a secret page—it’s a treasure map, leading to a prize beyond all imagining.
Follow the map, find the treasure, save his grandfather. Seems simple enough. But as Zeus and his friends work to solve the riddles of the map, long-buried secrets about the Harlem Renaissance, Black history, and Zeus’s own family are unraveled. And what’s more, they aren’t the only ones intent on seizing this prize. . .
Filled with interactive clues and puzzles, young readers will love solving this mile-a-minute mystery right alongside Zeus!
Twelve-year-old Zeus Jones is just about the only person in the world who believes in his grandfather’s stories about the Harlem Renaissance. To be fair, they are a bit far-fetched. After all, what are the chances that there was a renowned magazine called Burn! whose headquarters literally burned down, destroying almost every single copy? And who would believe that a secret page was actually hidden amongst the ashes, said to be the key to unlocking a lost fortune? No one, that’s who.
But when Zeus accidentally stumbles upon the secret page on the same day that his grandfather disappears without a trace, he finally has proof that his grandfather’s stories are more than just stories—they’re real. And now he knows that the secret page is more than just a secret page—it’s a treasure map, leading to a prize beyond all imagining.
Follow the map, find the treasure, save his grandfather. Seems simple enough. But as Zeus and his friends work to solve the riddles of the map, long-buried secrets about the Harlem Renaissance, Black history, and Zeus’s own family are unraveled. And what’s more, they aren’t the only ones intent on seizing this prize. . .
Filled with interactive clues and puzzles, young readers will love solving this mile-a-minute mystery right alongside Zeus!
336 pages, Hardcover
Published May 6, 2025
6 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 18, 2025
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Zeus Jones' ancestor, Amadeus Jones, had a magazine in the 1920s called BURN that not only showcased Black writers, but didn't ignore further marginalized groups, as many others did at the time. There was only one publication before a tragic fire took the offices and Amadeus' life. He was found in the rubble, clutching a toaster, which Zeus' grandfather saved. The grandfather has done very well; the Jones family has a big house in Southampton, chauffeur, and a butler, Mr. Will. The grandfather has been very involved in Zeus life, which has been helpful, since Zeus' parents are very busy, and his brother Apollo is a film star. There was even a group of children that were descendants of BURN's staff to whom the grandfather was teaching cultural history, but lately he has missed meetings with Zeus, and the group has been abandoned. When the grandfather doesn't answer his texts, Zeus knows something is wrong and calls together Ashley, Charlie, and David, asking them to bring their family's copies of the original magazine. Finding messages in invisible ink, combined with a clue Zeus had previously found in the toaster, motivates the group to take off on an adventure (with Mr. Will flying the family jet) that leads them to the Mojave desert, Boston, the University of Michigan, Chicago, the Statue of Liberty,and the plantation where the Jones ancestors were enslaved. They finish their journey at Arlington Cemetery, and they almost come to a tragic end in the basement of Robert E. Lee's house after the crew finds letters from the early 1800s. There is sure to be a second book, because this ends on an enormous cliffhanger!
Strengths: This packed an enormous amount of Black history into an engaging adventure story with deep family ties. I loved the depiction of Zeus' grandfather gathering the children and teaching them about history, and all of the memorabilia of the magazine that was in his office. It also gives Zeus great motivation to go on an adventure, as well as the resources to do so. Charlie was also an appealing character, who had once been wealthy but whose family has fallen on hard times after the collapse of her father's business and his death from a heart attack. There is even a question of how the Jones family might have been involved in this. The details about all of the sites visited (and there are many!) and the relation that they have to history are very well done, although I was hoping that the clues involving Jesse Owens would take the group to Ohio State instead of the University of Michigan. There is still more of the story to be told, but I can't find any information about a sequel yet.
Weaknesses: I always have a hard time believing that clues on paper can last for a hundred years, and that the children can pinpoint exactly where the clues are hidden, but younger readers won't have this problem. The fire in the Mojave desert was heartbreaking (the fires are still raging around Pacific Palisades and other California locations as I write this), and three people died, so sensitive readers might not be ready for this.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who enjoyed the combination of mystery and history in Vaught's 2016 Things Too Huge to Fix by Saying Sorry, Tarpley's 2017 Harlem Charade, Johnston's 2018 The Parker Inheritance, Durst's 2024 Spy Ring, or Landis' 2024 Capitol Chase.
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
Zeus Jones' ancestor, Amadeus Jones, had a magazine in the 1920s called BURN that not only showcased Black writers, but didn't ignore further marginalized groups, as many others did at the time. There was only one publication before a tragic fire took the offices and Amadeus' life. He was found in the rubble, clutching a toaster, which Zeus' grandfather saved. The grandfather has done very well; the Jones family has a big house in Southampton, chauffeur, and a butler, Mr. Will. The grandfather has been very involved in Zeus life, which has been helpful, since Zeus' parents are very busy, and his brother Apollo is a film star. There was even a group of children that were descendants of BURN's staff to whom the grandfather was teaching cultural history, but lately he has missed meetings with Zeus, and the group has been abandoned. When the grandfather doesn't answer his texts, Zeus knows something is wrong and calls together Ashley, Charlie, and David, asking them to bring their family's copies of the original magazine. Finding messages in invisible ink, combined with a clue Zeus had previously found in the toaster, motivates the group to take off on an adventure (with Mr. Will flying the family jet) that leads them to the Mojave desert, Boston, the University of Michigan, Chicago, the Statue of Liberty,and the plantation where the Jones ancestors were enslaved. They finish their journey at Arlington Cemetery, and they almost come to a tragic end in the basement of Robert E. Lee's house after the crew finds letters from the early 1800s. There is sure to be a second book, because this ends on an enormous cliffhanger!
Strengths: This packed an enormous amount of Black history into an engaging adventure story with deep family ties. I loved the depiction of Zeus' grandfather gathering the children and teaching them about history, and all of the memorabilia of the magazine that was in his office. It also gives Zeus great motivation to go on an adventure, as well as the resources to do so. Charlie was also an appealing character, who had once been wealthy but whose family has fallen on hard times after the collapse of her father's business and his death from a heart attack. There is even a question of how the Jones family might have been involved in this. The details about all of the sites visited (and there are many!) and the relation that they have to history are very well done, although I was hoping that the clues involving Jesse Owens would take the group to Ohio State instead of the University of Michigan. There is still more of the story to be told, but I can't find any information about a sequel yet.
Weaknesses: I always have a hard time believing that clues on paper can last for a hundred years, and that the children can pinpoint exactly where the clues are hidden, but younger readers won't have this problem. The fire in the Mojave desert was heartbreaking (the fires are still raging around Pacific Palisades and other California locations as I write this), and three people died, so sensitive readers might not be ready for this.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who enjoyed the combination of mystery and history in Vaught's 2016 Things Too Huge to Fix by Saying Sorry, Tarpley's 2017 Harlem Charade, Johnston's 2018 The Parker Inheritance, Durst's 2024 Spy Ring, or Landis' 2024 Capitol Chase.
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
https://msyinglingreads.blogspot.com/...
April 22, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
Billions to Burn has a group of four 12-13 year old friends that are trying to solve a 100 year old mystery. When Zeus' grandfather goes missing it is up to him and his three friends, each a descendant of founders of an all black newspaper that burned down in 1936, to solve the clues that he had been chasing. The problem? They aren't the only ones searching for this treasure and nobody that has looked for it in the past has ever been found again.
This book reminded me of a mix between National Treasure and 39 clues, with one fantastic twist. All the historical figures that the clues were tied to were black people who did some pretty amazing things, but their fame was overshadowed by their race. This was a great vessel to learn about a lot of the big historic events that took place for the black community near the 1930's. There was a pretty good mix of personalities and the action moved along quite nicely.
There was one big thing that I didn't care for in this book. The book is set in 2036, so 11 years in the future. I'm not quite sure why that year was picked, other than it is 100 years from the original fire that started the whole mystery/treasure hunt and there is something satisfying about a nicely rounded decade. The part that bothered me is that it is 11 years in the future and NOTHING has changed. Not technology, not medication costs, not race relations. The author talks about the way black people are treated by the police, including children, naming cases and people that, to the characters, would have happened DECADES ago. Things are apparently still just as bad, yet Charlie is able to waltz into a museum as a lone black girl and nobody looks at her twice? I really feel that the book would have been better set either now or just a few years into the future instead of 11.
Billions to Burn has a group of four 12-13 year old friends that are trying to solve a 100 year old mystery. When Zeus' grandfather goes missing it is up to him and his three friends, each a descendant of founders of an all black newspaper that burned down in 1936, to solve the clues that he had been chasing. The problem? They aren't the only ones searching for this treasure and nobody that has looked for it in the past has ever been found again.
This book reminded me of a mix between National Treasure and 39 clues, with one fantastic twist. All the historical figures that the clues were tied to were black people who did some pretty amazing things, but their fame was overshadowed by their race. This was a great vessel to learn about a lot of the big historic events that took place for the black community near the 1930's. There was a pretty good mix of personalities and the action moved along quite nicely.
There was one big thing that I didn't care for in this book. The book is set in 2036, so 11 years in the future. I'm not quite sure why that year was picked, other than it is 100 years from the original fire that started the whole mystery/treasure hunt and there is something satisfying about a nicely rounded decade. The part that bothered me is that it is 11 years in the future and NOTHING has changed. Not technology, not medication costs, not race relations. The author talks about the way black people are treated by the police, including children, naming cases and people that, to the characters, would have happened DECADES ago. Things are apparently still just as bad, yet Charlie is able to waltz into a museum as a lone black girl and nobody looks at her twice? I really feel that the book would have been better set either now or just a few years into the future instead of 11.
May 8, 2025
There are multiple layers to this story. The main plot deals with a National Treasure-type treasure hunt. Zeus and his friends were trained by his grandfather to look for clues and solve puzzles, and now they have to put that training to the test. But first, the kids have to repair some broken friendships.
With the guidance of Zeus’ grandfather’s butler—a white man—the kids must unravel clues that lead them through important facets of Harlem Renaissance history. They frequently find themselves confronting modern-day issues and prejudices as well.
As they do this, the kids reveal personal secrets and struggles. And Zeus finds out that his own family is guilty of some pretty startling prejudices.
Add in a secret society that is working against them, and the kids find themselves in pretty deep trouble.
This book does not end tidily. It is clear that a sequel is forthcoming.
There is some beautiful description here. There is a minor factual error that bothered me, but nothing to get too snippy about.
Possible Objectionable Material:
Frank discussion of racism. Perilous situations. Parental loss. Mention of colorism and homosexuality. A “homeless man…has his…you know what out.”
Who Might Like This Book:
Those who are interested in Black history, particularly the Harlem Renaissance. Those who like mysteries and solving puzzles. If you liked the movie National Treasure, this has a very similar vibe.
However, if you don’t want frank discussion of historical racism and racially motivated wrongs, you will probably not like this book.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for my opinion.
This book is also reviewed at https://biblioquacious.blogspot.com/2...
With the guidance of Zeus’ grandfather’s butler—a white man—the kids must unravel clues that lead them through important facets of Harlem Renaissance history. They frequently find themselves confronting modern-day issues and prejudices as well.
As they do this, the kids reveal personal secrets and struggles. And Zeus finds out that his own family is guilty of some pretty startling prejudices.
Add in a secret society that is working against them, and the kids find themselves in pretty deep trouble.
This book does not end tidily. It is clear that a sequel is forthcoming.
There is some beautiful description here. There is a minor factual error that bothered me, but nothing to get too snippy about.
Possible Objectionable Material:
Frank discussion of racism. Perilous situations. Parental loss. Mention of colorism and homosexuality. A “homeless man…has his…you know what out.”
Who Might Like This Book:
Those who are interested in Black history, particularly the Harlem Renaissance. Those who like mysteries and solving puzzles. If you liked the movie National Treasure, this has a very similar vibe.
However, if you don’t want frank discussion of historical racism and racially motivated wrongs, you will probably not like this book.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for my opinion.
This book is also reviewed at https://biblioquacious.blogspot.com/2...
November 29, 2024
I recieved a free eARC of this book. Thank you for the opportunity to read it.
One of the best things about the Percy Jackson series is the number of books that have come out since, with a group of chosen kids with different abilities exploring a specific mythological world.
Billions to Burn is another book in this genre, but with a twist-the world the kids are exploring is the world of Black History and the Harlem Renaissance. They are the descendants of the four families responsible for Burn! magazine, a collection of Black writing, art, and culture, which was burned before the first issue made it to newsstands, leaving behind four families and a mystery to solve…but everyone who has tried has died or disappeared.
This is an amazing book in so many ways. The action moves quickly, the kids are relatable and their skills required, the Butler. Will. is a support without being an impediment-and also solves one of the standard problems in such a book (as in), how does a character get from point A to B, get a hotel room, etc).
This is going to be a popular book among adventure loving kids-and hopefully lead them to look into Black history beyond what is covered in school. Notice, I don’t say just for Black kids. The representation. The history, the culture will be SO valuable for them….but I think many, many more children will benefit from this book, too.
And, the good news is that there is a sequel hook-so hopefully this will be the first of a long series!
One of the best things about the Percy Jackson series is the number of books that have come out since, with a group of chosen kids with different abilities exploring a specific mythological world.
Billions to Burn is another book in this genre, but with a twist-the world the kids are exploring is the world of Black History and the Harlem Renaissance. They are the descendants of the four families responsible for Burn! magazine, a collection of Black writing, art, and culture, which was burned before the first issue made it to newsstands, leaving behind four families and a mystery to solve…but everyone who has tried has died or disappeared.
This is an amazing book in so many ways. The action moves quickly, the kids are relatable and their skills required, the Butler. Will. is a support without being an impediment-and also solves one of the standard problems in such a book (as in), how does a character get from point A to B, get a hotel room, etc).
This is going to be a popular book among adventure loving kids-and hopefully lead them to look into Black history beyond what is covered in school. Notice, I don’t say just for Black kids. The representation. The history, the culture will be SO valuable for them….but I think many, many more children will benefit from this book, too.
And, the good news is that there is a sequel hook-so hopefully this will be the first of a long series!
January 12, 2025
Everyone has family members that like to tell far-fetched tales. Most of us don't believe them, but Zeus is not like most of us. Zeus is amazed by his grandfather's tales of the Harlem Renaissance, especially about the magazine he created called Burn. His grandfather talks about secret codes, hidden treasure, and a secret page from the magazine that holds the key to finding the treasure. It all sounds outrageous since the building where they published the magazine burned down many years before Zeus was born.
One day, Zeus find the secret page holding the key. However, the one person who could help him decipher the key has now disappeared. Zeus has to save his grandfather, who can help him follow the map to the treasure.
This book has a fast pace, full of action, and has characters that are relatable to many young kids today. I loved learning about the Harlem Renaissance in school and feel that this book would help some students become interested in that era too.
Thanks to NetGalley and Disney Publishing for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
One day, Zeus find the secret page holding the key. However, the one person who could help him decipher the key has now disappeared. Zeus has to save his grandfather, who can help him follow the map to the treasure.
This book has a fast pace, full of action, and has characters that are relatable to many young kids today. I loved learning about the Harlem Renaissance in school and feel that this book would help some students become interested in that era too.
Thanks to NetGalley and Disney Publishing for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 19, 2025
Thank you @NetGalley for this ARC. Billions to Burn is a must read for this generation. The book is filled with history and adventure. Zeus Jones is a 12 year old boy who has heard all his grandfather's stories about the Harlem Renaissance. His grandfather goes missing which starts a chain of events to find him and the lost treasure that he thought was a myth. He is joined by old friends and family, as well as his grandfather's butler. This is going to be an easy book to get my students wanting to read.
October 19, 2025
I really wish that I had good things to say about this book. Unfortunately, even for a fan of "National Treasure" like myself, this book missed the mark. The characters read like flat, stereotypes - especially the villains. Additionally, the writing itself struggled in places -hiccups that would bring me right out of any immersion I managed to achieve. The book also could have done without the ridiculous epilogue which by setting up for a sequel, spoiled any resolution to the plot of this book that the author hoped to achieve.
June 21, 2025
A middle grade, "National Treasure"-esque mystery intertwined with Black history. While it definitely required suspension of disbelief as Zeus and his friends travel around the US accompanied by his grandfather's butler in order to solve the mystery, this well-written, exciting story will entertain 9-12 year old readers, and since there is definitely more to come, they will be begging for the next in the series.
Review based on a digital ARC received through NetGalley.
Review based on a digital ARC received through NetGalley.
October 22, 2025
A group of kids run around the country to find a missing grandfather and solve an old mystery dating to 1930s Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance. Lots of Black history incorporated into the fast-paced story. Unfortunately, none of the characters were well-developed at all, and I couldn't really tell them apart. And of course, an old mysterious racist white nationalist group is after both them and the supposed treasure at the end of the series of clues. Give this to fans of "Hide and Geek"
February 10, 2025
This is my favorite kind of middle school story. Fairly relatable characters, lots of action and the best part for me is LOTS of history. I think it is a fun way for kids to dive down rabbit holes learning more about something from the past. This was full of those. Many landmarks, and lots of little known or little represented black history. I absolutely loved it!!
February 15, 2025
This gave me vibes of The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson, and I loved that it was a perfect blend of Black history mixed with a huge adventure that keeps you wanting more. It’s over 300 pages, so we have less middle grade readers who will be able to devour this right now, but those that do will definitely step away from it glad they read it.
January 25, 2025
Absolutely adored this book. A must read for young Black kids everywhere and even adults. So well written and both fun & insightful. Hope there is a sequel!!
February 26, 2025
Reviewing for a professional journal
August 6, 2025
3.5
The mystery aspect was really good, but there were political things/stereotypes that were not necessary, especially for a kid book. 🤷♀️ Ending was confusing as well
The mystery aspect was really good, but there were political things/stereotypes that were not necessary, especially for a kid book. 🤷♀️ Ending was confusing as well
September 7, 2025
If you like the series 39 Clues, you will like this book.
October 4, 2025
Great adventure story for kids embedded with some black history and art lessons. Reminds me of the movie National Treasure.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews