Every unfamiliar word is a mystery waiting to be solved. Welcome to Word Detective Academy, where young readers learn vocabulary by investigating evidence, questioning claims and solving 36 progressively challenging cases. Instead of memorizing isolated definitions, learners use the repeatable C.L.U.E. method to examine the language around an unfamiliar word, test a possible meaning and prove their conclusion with evidence. Each case combines an engaging mystery with vocabulary, context clues, reading comprehension and critical-thinking practice. Inside the Academy: • 36 different vocabulary mysteries • 108 carefully taught context-clue words • Six progressive detective ranks • The repeatable C.L.U.E. method • Definitions, synonyms, contrasts, examples, cause-and-effect clues and inference • Evidence-ranking and statement-testing activities • Diagnostic and final skill checks • Progress tracking and spaced-review tools • Complete case solutions and answer explanations • A quick-reference glossary and word index • A create-your-own-mystery challenge • A completion certificate Each case takes approximately 15–20 minutes, making the book ideal for home learning, homeschooling, tutoring, classrooms, after-school enrichment and independent practice. Learners do more than choose an answer. They identify the strongest clue, reject weak explanations and explain why their conclusion fits the passage. Solve the case. Read the clues. Prove the meaning.