The Unbreakable Code by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman offers an engaging mix of mystery and adventure for young readers. The positive elements include intriguing puzzles and strong character dynamics. However, some found the plot pacing uneven. Overall, it’s a delightful sequel that captures the excitement of a literary scavenger hunt.

Readers who would enjoy The Unbreakable Code by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman are fans of middle-grade mystery and adventure, similar to fans of The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart and The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin, aiming for clever puzzles and engaging plots in an urban setting.

In The Unbreakable Code, Jennifer Chambliss Bertman presents the story of a young person named Emily and their friend James, who are on a mission to unravel a historic San Francisco mystery involving secret codes. The duo faces numerous challenges while navigating their adventure, striving to solve the puzzle and protect a library.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Adventurous / Informative / Playful

**Emily Crane**  
A passionate seventh-grader and protagonist, Emily is a devoted reader and participant in the online game Book Scavenger, who desires stability in San Francisco through her love of books and puzzles.

**James Lee**  
Emily’s best friend, James is a cheerful and intelligent classmate who shares her enthusiasm for books and puzzles, and participates in their collaborative investigations.

**Mr. Quisling**  
Emily’s social studies teacher, he is a complex character with a personal connection to the Book Scavenger game, initially giving an impression of secrecy and mystery.

**Mr. Sloan/The Phoenix/Coolbrith**  
The novel’s antagonist, Mr. Sloan is a former teacher who uses the persona of "The Phoenix" to execute a plan of revenge involving a series of arson attacks.

**Matthew Crane**  
Emily’s charismatic older brother, Matthew provides support and contrasting confidence to Emily, joining her and James on significant adventures.

**Hollister**  
The owner of a bookstore, Hollister is a mentor figure to Emily, who provides her with a welcoming environment to explore her passion for books.

**Garrison Griswold**  
The founder of Book Scavenger, Mr. Griswold is a once-flamboyant character who becomes more reclusive after an attack but is encouraged by Emily to rejoin the community.

**Charlie**  
A college student working on Hollister’s website, Charlie is a red herring in the mystery who faces repercussions for his dishonesty and irresponsibility.

**Emily’s Parents**  
Adventurous freelancers who frequently move the family, creating tension with Emily’s desire for stability, but remain supportive and considerate of her wishes.

**Regina Linden**  
An unconventional green-haired librarian at the History Center, Ms. Linden aids Emily with her knowledge of local history and represents a free-spirited adult mentor.

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