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A life-time Michigan native, Kristi has been writing since her early days in middle school, but only recently ventured into writing full-time. Prior to 2011, she spent 13-years working in various positions in Human Resources within prominent organizations. Kristi holds a Bachelor's of Science degree from Oakland University, with a major in Human Resource Development that includes a specialization in Training and Development.
Kristi currently lives in Ionia, MI with her husband, David and two teenaged children, Jacob and Juliana (who Jack is loosely based on). Kristi was inspired to write The Jack O'Rourke Series based on encouragement (and a bit of nagging!) from her husband, who felt that there was nothing like a modern day Nancy Drew for young tweens to read. When Kristi is not writing adventures for our pint-sized heroin, she co-owns and operates a Resale Shop in down town Ionia with her mom, Linda.
Aside from writing, Kristi enjoys reading, attending her kid’s sporting events and spending quality time with her family.
Reviewed by Anastacia Hawkins for Readers' Favorite
The Jack O'Rourke Series - Tricks, But No Treats by Kristi Washbourn is a Nancy Drew-esque mystery adventure for readers ages 8-12. Jacqueline —Jack — O’Rourke, is a magnet for trouble. When her sleepy town is suddenly being vandalized, and the mayor declares that there will be no Halloween activities until the culprits are caught, Jack and her friends become super sleuths to save Halloween. With the help of a local police chief, the town librarian, and her closest friends, Jack uncovers the truth. But when Jack stumbles accidentally upon two of the vandals, she is swept up into a nightmare of kidnapping and cruelty that she could never have anticipated.
Tricks But No Treats is a smart, suspenseful romp of a tale, with a quirky, quick-witted lead character. Is it believable that a 14-year-old girl can uncover what the police cannot? If you read with an open mind and childlike enthusiasm, I suppose it can be. Most of Ms. Washbourn’s characters are interesting and likable, or unlikable (as antagonists should be), with the exception of Jack’s boyfriend, Ayden, who is over-the-top “perfect.” I would have liked to have seen a more realistic 14-year-old boy emerge from him. But if you can get past the unbelievable and simply enjoy the journey, as many middle readers can, this story offers a great ride. Ms. Washbourn sets up the end of the story to continue into Jack’s next adventure, so if you like it, there are more to come!
