A construction site is no place for teenagers after dark.
Oliver and Maddy learn that the hard way when they sneak through a hole in the fence and discover a half-buried yellow backpack. Inside, they find a tiny T-shirt and an old compass before they're chased off the property by a man and his big dog. Oliver and Maddy have no idea that they have just uncovered a key piece of evidence...one that could put their lives in danger.
Told in collage format with journal entries, transcripts, newspaper articles and other artifacts, this short thriller recounts a terrifying encounter between Oliver and Maddy and the murderer whose crime they inadvertently uncover.
The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.
Junior Library Guild (JLG) Gold Standard Selection | 2026 | Commended
“What makes Do Not Go Out at Night a particularly good read is the distinctive formatting. The exploration of legal procedure and crime-solving evokes a sense of justice. The young characters who allow curiosity and compassion—and yes, fear—to guide their actions, will appeal to readers.”
“For a quick read, this book is a great choice that employs familiar thriller tropes. Alternating perspectives, photos, news stories, and text threads are all used to good effect and keep the story moving quickly. A solid choice for libraries needing to update or expand their collection of hi-lo titles, and the mystery elements in the book’s premise provide a solid hook for reluctant readers. Recommended.”