Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the Stolen Diamonds

In the final chapters, the author builds tension in the story, centering on Cam’s moment-to-moment experiences until she is finally rescued by a police officer. This technique gives the story a sense of urgency that would work well in a movie, and the story’s pacing is designed to appeal to young readers and provide an action-packed narrative despite the story’s brevity. As Cam waits in her hiding spot with baby Howie, it is clear that she is still in danger of being found, and the author offers a suspenseful description of the thieves searching the house for her. As the story states, “Cam heard footsteps. One of the men was standing very close. ‘You check the cellar!’ the man yelled. ‘I’ll look in here.’ Cam heard the man move slowly around the room” (50). While the situation is a serious one, the corresponding illustration offers a lighter version of events, featuring Cam looking at her rescuer in the window while a confused Howie sucks on her finger.

Cam and Eric’s triumphant reunion fully develops the novel’s theme on The Value of Friendship and Teamwork, as Eric’s quick trip to the police saves Cam and Howie from danger. The two friends’ relief at seeing each other illustrates their close bond, and they enjoy the police’s praise of their teamwork as the thieves are handcuffed and taken away. Most importantly, however, the police officers’ appreciation for Cam’s intelligence and bravery highlights The Importance of Situational Awareness. As police officer compliments Cam’s memory and acknowledges her role in solving the case, he suggests that having a photographic memory is an excellent skill for a detective to have. This comment sets the stage for the broader Cam Jansen series, and as the police officer admits that he and his team were struggling to put together the clues, his appreciative attitude conveys the empowering message that young children can make an important difference in the world around them. As the officer says, “Well, it’s lucky you were in the mall […]. Those thieves had us baffled” (55). By acknowledging the children’s clever and heroic actions, the police officer gives Cam and Eric a positive sense of closure to their adventure.