The book I’m looking for is a beautifully illustrated oversized (aprox. 11 X 14) softcover picture book about a boy who wanders alone through what I think is his eccentric aunt’s house. Starting at the front gate he finds a note with a poem on it which leads him to the next place. This is repeated through the garden and by the pool and then into the house until he ends up in the kitchen where everyone jumps out and there is a big banner that says “Surprise!”
I hope someone knows the book I am asking about. I read the book to my daughter when she was young and she is now 15 years old. She is learning to read to children herself now and very much wants to find that book again which we lost in a move several years ago.
Sounds like the Scholastic book TONY’S TREASURE HUNT (later published with a girl main character and titled TERRY’S TREASURE HUNT) by Holly and John Peterson.
Thanks Jen for the suggestion. We looked into it and it wasn’t the book we are looking for.
Check ‘the 13th Clue” by Anne Jonas. Starts with a diary entry. Series of visual clues leading to surprise party. Main character girl tough. Maybe it will help you remember more details.
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1701945.The_13th_Clue
Hi. Just wanted to let anyone know in case you’re interested, we found the book! It is Mystery Mansion by Michael Garland. It’s a wonderful book. My daughter is super excited to get it back.