Chasing Vermeer

• Genre: Fiction; middle grade mystery
• Originally Published: 2004
• Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 770L; grades 5-8
• Structure/Length: 24 chapters; approx. 304 pages; approx. 4 hours, 46 minutes on audio
• Protagonist and Central Conflict: Sixth graders Petra Andalee and Calder Pillay attempt to recover a stolen painting using hidden patterns, puzzles, and clues in contemporary Chicago. The reader can attempt to solve codes and ciphers in the text and illustrations as the characters pursue their goal.

Blue Balliett, Author

• Bio: Born in 1955; raised in New York City; wanted to be a writer from an early age; visited and was inspired by city museums throughout her childhood; studied art history at Brown University; taught at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, which Petra and Calder attend in Chasing Vermeer
• Other Works: The Wright 3 (2006); The Calder Game (2008); Hold Fast (2013)
• Awards: Agatha Award for Best YA Novel (2004); Edgar Award for Best Juvenile Novel (2005); Chicago Tribune Prize for Young Adult Fiction

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Unit:

• The Oneness of All Things
• Perceiving Patterns
• Defining Art

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Unit, students will:

• Explore how characters and conflict are introduced and developed in effective mysteries to deepen their engagement with and comprehension of Chasing Vermeer.