THE MYSTERY OF THE MISSING BAGPIPES, by Kathy Lynn Emerson, Avon/Camelot Books, 122 pages, softcover, $2.95.

In what may seem at times to be sweeping changes in generational tastes, it is heartening to know that in the young adult novel field, mysteries are still extremely popular.

Maine author Kathy Lynn Emerson has proven that three times over, and in this her latest puzzle she has also added a new dimension because it concerns the art of the bagpipes. Long familiar in royal realms and also popular in Canada they have heretofore not been quite so well-known in this area. Yet they have their devotees and certainly there is nothing which adds such sparkle and snap to a parade as a Kiltie band.

Unfortunately, listening to this kind of wailing is not 12-year-old Kim’s, this book’s heroine, idea of summer fun. However, since her dad has decided to attend a school for bagpipers held on an isolated estate in Maine, she knows there is little she can do about her situation. Any young person will identify with her frustration as she learns she also must be partly responsible for her twin siblings.

What appears to promise a boring summer, however, could not have been more misleading. First there are the new friends she makes, particularly quiet, charming Woody, who is a summer grounds worker on the estate.

The compatability is shattered by the theft of a valuable set of antique bagpipes. In part because of his proximity to the crime but more probably because of misdemeanors by other members of his family, suspicion falls his way. This type of innuendo is not a trait that Kim has been brought up to appreciate and so her sleuthing begins.

This is a healthy story with enough suspense and adventure to hold one’s interest. Refreshingly there is not an overplay of violence and gory crime. It is an excellent summer choice for that niece or nephew. A lagniappe is the addition of a minimal glossary of terms concerning bagpipes and the art of playing them.

Kathy Lynn Emerson resides in Wilton and has taught and lectured at various workshops within the state. She is currently working on an adult mystery novel.

Marion Flood French is a free-lance writer who resides in Bangor.