Road Trip Mysteries

A Lost Package · Hidden Clues · A Last Promise · Real Places You Can Visit Stan never thought a road trip with his parents could turn into a viral video for solving an old mystery. But when they buy a used RV, launch a travel vlog, and pull him out of school for a year of "learning in real life," that's exactly what happens. Behind a soda machine at an old Route 66 gas station, Stan discovers a package hidden since 1954. Inside are three pieces of petrified wood and a letter from a stranger begging whoever finds them to return them before the bad luck gets any worse. As Stan shares clues with their growing online audience, the mystery leads his family across northern Arizona, from the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest to Meteor Crater, the famous corner in Winslow, the pine forests of Flagstaff, and finally the edge of the Grand Canyon. Along the way, they uncover fascinating geology, surprising history, and the real reason national park rules exist, while learning what it means to make things right, even when the mistake wasn't yours. But the clock is ticking. Bulldozers are scheduled to tear down the old station, and as the mystery goes viral, Stan discovers he isn't the only one searching for what's inside that forgotten package. Illustrated throughout, this fast-paced adventure weaves more than 55 real Arizona facts into the story. Every fact is true and is collected in Stan's Fact Notes at the back of the book, making it easy for curious readers, classrooms, and homeschool families to explore the real places, history, geology, and wildlife featured in the adventure. Written for reluctant readers ages 7 to 10, with short chapters, engaging illustrations, and a "just one more chapter" pace, it's perfect for independent readers and family read-alouds. Visit the adventure yourself! Most of the places Stan visits are real locations your family can explore across Arizona. Perfect for kids who love mysteries, road trips, hidden history, and unforgettable adventures inspired by real places they can visit long after they turn the final page.