Walls Within Walls by Maureen Sherry and Adam Stower delivers an engaging mix of mystery and adventure, perfect for young readers. The narrative is praised for its clever puzzles and relatable characters, though some critics mention a predictable plot. Overall, it’s a delightful read that sparks imagination and curiosity.

Fans of mystery and adventure, especially young readers aged 8-12, will relish Walls Within Walls by Maureen Sherry and Adam Stower. Those who enjoyed The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin or Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett will find a similar thrill in solving hidden puzzles and exploring secret passages.

In Walls Within Walls by Maureen Sherry and Adam Stower, the Smithfork children—CJ, Brid, and Patrick—team up with Eloise Post to uncover her father’s hidden legacy in their new Manhattan apartment, discovering clues that lead them through New York City's history and the works of architect Raphael Guastavino, while facing challenges from the mysterious Mr. Torrio.

Mysterious / Adventurous / Suspenseful / Nostalgic / Contemplative

**CJ Smithfork**  
The eldest of the Smithfork children, he is seen as the responsible sibling but struggles with the pressure of looking after his siblings while engaging in a treasure hunt across New York City.

**Bridget “Brid” Smithfork**  
The middle Smithfork child, she often supports her older brother CJ and grapples with her insecurities while serving as a mediator in various family dynamics.

**Patrick “Pat” Smithfork**  
The youngest Smithfork child with a keen eye for detail, who uses his observational skills to aid in the treasure hunt and desires inclusion in his siblings' adventures.

**Eloise Post/Mrs. Munn**  
The Smithforks’ downstairs neighbor, she acts as a mentor figure, offering wisdom and insights into the hidden mysteries of the past and the treasure hunt.

**Julian Post/Mr. Torrio**  
The enigmatic antagonist who conceals his identity, adding depth and complexity to the treasure hunt while dealing with personal grievances from his past.

Maureen Sherry

Adam Stower

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Walls Within Walls reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Walls Within Walls | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Walls Within Walls and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Walls Within Walls Summary and Study Guide

Background

Walls Within Walls Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-8

Walls Within Walls Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-16

Walls Within Walls Chapters 9-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-26

Walls Within Walls Chapters 17-26 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 27-36

Walls Within Walls Chapters 27-36 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 37-43

Walls Within Walls Chapters 37-43 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Walls Within Walls Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Walls Within Walls Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Walls Within Walls Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Walls Within Walls Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Walls Within Walls Essay Topics

Walls Within Walls

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Walls Within Walls?

Reading Age

Book Details