Jake Evans has embarked on a two-month vacation in some of America’s most wild places. From waterfalls to caverns, mountain lakes and meltwater steams, he and his friends will explore lost landmarks and find hidden clues to an ancient mystery. Along the way, he will learn what it takes to survive in the backcountry. He’ll discover connections to the past and a deep longing for experiences that only come our way when we venture outside.
When will you publish books 6 through 10?
To keep up to date on my writing and publishing, check out my publication schedule page, and sign up to be notified when I release new books.
Start by Downloading the Sample Chapters of Book 1: Mystery in Rocky Mountain National Park...or Sample Chapters of Books 2, 3, 4, & 5!
Sign up for our newsletter to get exclusive content, contests, and news. After sign-up, you’ll get access to download the PDFs of the sample chapters from all the books.
- Written for ages 7 to 14
- 4th to 6th Grade Reading Level
- Approx. 250 Pages Each
- 30 to 50 Illustrations in Every Book
What Kids and Parents Love about the National Park Mystery Series
Characters with Character
"The characters work together and treat each other in ways that kids can look up to and hopefully emulate. I would recommend this book to any adventurous, nature-loving child (or adult)."
- Parent
Wilderness and Survival Skills
"This is a can't-put-it-down book. I've organized and led hikes into the Grand Canyon for over 20 years and am impressed by the level of detail very naturally woven into the story without diminishing the high-energy, fast-paced tempo that readers will enjoy."
- Joan, Grandparent
Read-Aloud Adventure Known to Keep Parents Up Past Bedtime
"When my son read ahead without me, I couldn't wait to read it myself to catch up! "- Reid Johnson
Appeals to A Wide Age-Range
"Enjoyed by all! Ages 11, 10, 7, 5, and mom. :)"
- Crystal
“I am 17 years old and absolutely love Mr. Johnson’s new National Park Mystery Series! My 14-year-old sister and I devour each new book that comes out."
- Alexia S., Student
Kids Who Enjoy Their Parents
“But these kids are also cool, brave, clever, witty, and fun! Oh, and their parents are good people—and alive! It’s really rare to find that in kids’ books! Hooray for positive parent role models in kids’ books!"
- Parent
Illustrated by the Author
"I still really like books with pictures."
- Aaron (the author)
I wasn’t a big reader as a kid. Then, my sixth-grade teacher, Mrs. Jones, handed me a copy of a book that captured my heart and imagination. It’s my hope that kids will find in these pages the same thing that sparked a love of reading in me. (I hear it can be contagious ;). Growing up, my parents and grandparents shared with me their fascination with plants, animals, and beautiful landscapes. I feel like I’m getting the chance to pass on what they shared with me. And I hear stories from grandparents, parents, and teachers that these adventures have been a way to connect with and share their love and care for the outdoors.
Thanks for supporting the series and our family business.
– Aaron Johnson