I’m excited to introduce my guest today, Cheryl Linn Martin. Cheryl is the author of the Hawaiian Island Detective Club series. The second book in the series is set to
release on February 5. Her first book, Pineapples in Peril, introduces three Hawaiian friends–Leilani, Maile and Sam–who solve the mystery of who is vandalizing the fruit at the Tong Pineapple Plantation. It’s a fun read that will not only entertain middle-grade readers but teach them about Hawaiian culture.
Her second book, Menehunes Missing, is due out in just a few days on February 5.
Cheryl, the question we’re all asking is what is a Menehune and how do they go missing?
They are Hawaii’s treasured “little people,” kind of like a Leprechaun. As a school fundraiser, Menehune statues are hidden around town. Leilani, Maile and Sam get clues and try to find the locations. But the kids soon discover that the statues are missing from their spots.
What inspired you to write this series?
I have always loved Hawaii ever since I lived there while attending The University of Hawaii. I combined that with my interest in writing for ages 8-12 years and The Hawaiian Island Detective Club was born!
The three books in this series are entitled Pineapples in Peril, Menehunes Missing, and Ukuleles Undercover.
When is Book Three of The Hawaiian Island Detective Club coming out?
Ukuleles Undercover releases August 14, 2013
All right, now let’s hear from one of your characters.
Hey, Sam, what’s it like working with two girls as part of The Hawaiian Island Detective Club?
(Sam shrugs) Leilani and Maile are cool. Except when they pop around and scream like little babies or something. Totally annoying.
What’s was the best part of the Menehunes Missing mystery?
Going to the car repair shop. I just love cars. (He belches.) Leilani and Maile hate the gross, greasy smells in those service garages, but I think it’s totally great. Nothin’ like getting your hands and clothes all grungy. Cars are amazing, even when they make weird noises like my mom’s car does a lot. It’s cool how you can tell what’s going on by the sound. Sometimes it’s a belt, or some—
(I wave my hand) That’s great, Sam. Were there any scary moments for you?
(Sam crunches on some macadamia nuts and nods) For real. That Mrs. Wong is waaaaaay scary. But I know how to talk myself out of any danger from her.
Hmm, yes. Talking, snacking and belching seem to be your favorite things besides cars, right?
Yup. But I also love construction. My dad’s a contractor, so I know a lot about building things.
Thanks for visiting, Sam!
Let’s go back to Cheryl. How can your readers connect with you?
My website address is www.cheryllinnmartin.com
I also have a blog all about Hawaii at www.lifeinflip-flops.blogspot.com
You can also connect with me on my facebook author page at www.facebook.com/authorcheryllinnmartin
or on Twitter at http://twitter.com/clinnmartin
Great! Thanks for stopping by Cheryl. You can order Cheryl’s books now through links on her website or at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or your favorite book seller.
