To fans:
Discover a trail of clues hidden in the pages of Michele Mack’s debut novel, Henry Fickle and the Secret Laboratory—clues visible for all to see, except the last one, which is ingeniously disguised by the eccentric inventor himself. Fickle assigned four tasks, which will test your skills and ignite your minds. Attention Teachers: This is a great assignment for your students!
Best of luck!
The Sorcerer’s Press
Henry Fickle’s Mysterious Puzzle Challenge!
“Greetings! I’m delighted to see you all here! Read each task carefully and then delve deep into the book to find the answers. I must say, the first three tasks won’t be too difficult, but the last one … well, it will take some thought. The mind is a storehouse of knowledge, you see. It can retrieve solutions to rather difficult problems—use it well. Challenge the accept you will? Wait! Stop! Rewind! Will you accept the challenge? Yes, that’s much better. Yes? I’m delighted! Well, then, shall we get started? Let the challenge begin!”
Your Friend,
Henry Fickle
TASK #1
What three objects sat inside the left pocket of my lab coat? What was embroidered over the pocket, and what color thread was used?
TASK #2
In one of the rooms of my estate, a portrait of me hung on the wall. I was sitting at my desk holding something, while pointing to it with my other hand. What was I holding?
TASK #3
A white cloud escaped off the surface of my latest invention. I held six of the delightful treats in my hand. What did I name them? What color did each of the five children choose? What color did I select, and what unusual flavor burst into my mouth? Finally, what color made your tongue go numb for a few days?
TASK #4
An ancient secret of life waits.
The wings and ibis guard its gates.
Its knowledge resides in a master’s work of art,
which rests behind a pointed star.
CONTEST ANSWERS!
TASK #1
A mechanical pencil, ballpoint pen and scientific calculator.
My initials H.F.
Emerald thread.
TASK #2
I was holding a scroll.
TASK #3
Evercool Fickle Pops.
Dillon (red), Sarina (orange), Kipper (blue), Tara (yellow), Tommy (green).
Fickle chose a purple pop with Snazzberrie flavor.
The green pops.
TASK #4
Wings=Isis, and Ibis=Thoth (The two guardians of Fickle’s estate)
Leonardo da Vinci’s famous man canon drawing.
Pointed Star=two-dimensional star tetrahedron. Fickle drew it on a thin vellum,
which was taped over Leonardo’s famous painting!