From the moment he makes the 911 call to report an emergency with his baby sister, 13‑year‑old Branwell Zamborska is unable to talk. According to the family’s British au pair, Branwell dropped and then shook the baby, leading to her brain injury. Now he is being held in a juvenile detention center, awaiting trial. But his best friend Connor is certain there’s more to the story. He knows Branwell would never hurt his baby sister. He also knows how much Branwell loves language, based on the word games they’ve played over the years. Is there some way he can use one of those games to unlock the words hidden deep inside his friend? Using 12 cards bearing single words or phrases that have special meaning to both boys, Connor is slowly able to unravel the mystery with the help of his adult stepsister, a savvy young woman who has a special understanding of Branwell and his family. Told in Connor’s wry voice, the story moves briskly as each card selected by Branwell sends Connor on a bit of investigative work. And Connor finds that he has another puzzle right in his own family—the source of a long‑standing rift between his father and his half sister. Konigsburg’s compelling novel reads like a good mystery. It explores the nature of empathy, the complexity of love, and the power of language. Winner, CCBC 2001 Newbery Discussion (Ages 10‑14)

On Wednesday, November 25, at 2: 43 P. M., Eastern Standard Time, Branwell Zamborska is struck dumb. Nikki, his baby half sister, has slipped into a coma. Branwell dials 911, but when the emergency operator answers, he cannot speak. He cannot explain what is wrong. He cannot utter a sound.

Vivian Shawcurt, the "au pair" from England, takes over. She tells the emergency medical team that Branwell dropped Nikki and shook her.

Nikki is taken to the Clarion County Hospital, and Branwell is sent to the Clarion County Juvenile Behavioral Center.

Branwell's dad asks Connor, Branwell's best friend, to visit the Behavioral Center to see if he can break the silence and find out what happened. Connor knows that Branwell loves Nikki. Why would he hurt her?

Connor finds a way to communicate with Branwell and, with the help of Margaret, his older half sister, he begins to investigate the events leading up to the silence. Slowly he discovers what Branwell's problems really are and what it takes to help Branwell reveal what happened that Wednesday afternoon.

More than a detective story -- though that element is here -- this many-layered tale explores in E. L. Konigsburg's unique manner basic human needs and emotions with suspense, excitement, and deep understanding.