SUMMARY
A delivery drone begins landing on the roof of the children’s apartment building every night at exactly 8:17. Each time, it carries a sealed package addressed to someone who does not live there. When the package is opened by the building manager, it is completely empty.
The children initially suspect a malfunction. Then they notice that the drone is not lost—it is waiting for someone.
THE SERIES
The series follows three 12-year-old friends who have lived in the same Upper West Side apartment building since birth. New York City in 2030 is filled with self-driving vehicles, flying taxis, delivery drones, service robots, artificial-intelligence assistants, and buildings that seem to think for themselves.
Their parents appreciate useful technology but distrust how completely it has taken over daily life. The children have limited screen time, cannot freely travel across the city, and must get permission before using advanced devices. That makes solving mysteries harder—but also forces them to think creatively, observe carefully, and use old-fashioned detective methods.
These books emphasize:
Curiosity, friendship, courage, honesty, and family.Technology as a useful tool—not a substitute for judgment.Respectful cooperation with police officers, transit officers, firefighters, security personnel, and other trusted adults.Suspense without graphic violence, profanity, or adult subject matter.Children helping uncover evidence rather than recklessly confronting dangerous criminals.
