Middle Grade May '26: The Mystery of the Stolen World Cup Trophy

By: Angela Cervantes

Trade Paperback

240 pages Juvenile Fiction / Mystery & Detective Stories Ages 8 to 12

Summary:

From Pura Belpré Honor recipient Angela Cervantes and perfectly timed for the 2026 World Cup, The Mystery of the Stolen World Cup Trophy follows 12-year-old sleuth Diez Espada on a high-stakes case as he tracks down the tournament's stolen trophy in time for kickoff in 24 hours.

Diez Espada—named after the jersey number of his soccer-obsessed father’s favorite player, Lionel Messi—wishes he was off solving mysteries instead of stuck playing on the pitch. When he scores an invitation to an exclusive reception in Miami to celebrate the city hosting the World Cup championship match, he witnesses someone stealing the prized trophy right under the guests’ noses.

Out to prove that he's a bonafide sleuth, Diez join forces with young socialite, Rio, and his hero, the legendary Detective Enzo, to crack the case. During a whirlwind one-night search for the culprit, a squad of shady suspects are under investigation: the spoiled, vengeful son of the FIFA boss, a waiter at the party who may be a notorious thief in disguise, and even Rio's two prankster younger brothers.

Will Diez and his detective duo find the trophy in time for the championship match?