Gymnasium Student and the Black Hand

In the First Exemplary Gymnasium, everything appears exemplary—except for some students. A sinister figure, known only as the Black Hand, seems to know each student's secrets and uses this knowledge to manipulate and threaten them. Those who fail to comply with the Black Hand's demands face dire consequences. Amidst these threats, eighth-grader Yurko Turyanytsia becomes entangled in a dangerous adventure. The Black Hand holds crucial information about a murder for which a Ukrainian volunteer soldier is being wrongfully accused. Determined to uncover the truth, Yurko takes on the role of a detective, delving into eerie abandoned buildings, navigating old Kyiv courtyards, and confronting armed criminals. Assisting him are the resourceful private detective Nazar Shpyh, known for his knack for disguises, and a comical four-legged companion named Gentleman. This gripping detective novel by renowned Ukrainian author Andriy Kokotyuha promises to be the beginning of an exciting series chronicling the adventures of Kyiv gymnasium student Yurko Turyanytsia. Suitable for middle school readers