Can mathematics play a significant role in solving a baffling mystery? Two young detectives use their curiosity and math skills to discover the identity of The Phantom of the Bell Tower. Part 1 begins with the mysterious haunting of church members and the ringing of long silent bells: the detectives start working and present viewers with clues to solving the mystery. The program is designed to implement the newest goals set out by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. The presentation is intended to be used with classes that watch Part 1, and then are divided into small groups of children who use the six clue kits and interact to solve problems which are mathematically difficult, but require higher thinking skills and many steps. Classes who viewed Part 1 were highly motivated to work on the questions which one of the young detectives articulates. Many of the children worked diligently and cooperation was very effective. Part 2 dramatizes the exciting conclusion, which leads to photographing the Phantom, and the detectives describing how they solved the mystery for a local TV news program. The teacher's guide includes strategies to help students think about ways to solve the problems and related problems and puzzles. The video dramatization conveys excitement and humor, and emphasizes the importance of teamwork. The live-action visuals are often gripping and the sound quality is good. The black girl and white boy detectives are both good, believable role models because they are equally matched in ingenuity and boldness.

Elise Wendel, Orchard Road School, Skillman, NJ

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