Mystery stories for children have had something of a revival, with a rich seam of titles by authors including Katherine Woodfine and Robin Stevens. Those in the recent crop have all the pace and adventure of Blyton, but combined with something altogether more thought-provoking.

The Goldfish Boy is a fine example. Twelve-year-old Matthew is confined to his house by obsessive-compulsive disorder, which is manifested in a severe fear of germs and sickness. In a scenario reminiscent of Rear Window he spends his days at his bedroom window observing the inhabitants of Chestnut Close, keeping notes of their daily routines. When a neighbouring toddler goes missing it soon becomes clear that Matthew was the last person to see him alive. Can he overcome his fears, turn detective and solve the crime? And there is a second mystery at play: what is the tragic event that triggered Matthew’s condition?

Comparisons with The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time are inevitable – Mark Haddon’s mystery is narrated by a 15-year-old who displays autistic tendencies – but this is a younger read, and I recommend it more to children who have enjoyed Siobhan Dowd’s excellent The London Eye Mystery. Although the story is perhaps a little slow to start, clever plotting gradually exposes the undercurrents of what appears to be a very ordinary suburban street. Thompson writes with great kindness, perception and an enviable light touch, not only about Matthew but also the residents of Chestnut Close, each of whom harbour their own secrets. It is this heart and humour, along with a strong message about the value of family, friends and facing your fears, that make this assured debut stand out.

• The Goldfish Boy by Lisa Thompson is published by Scholastic (£6.99). To order a copy for £5.94 go to bookshop.theguardian.com or call 0330 333 6846. Free UK p&p over £10, online orders only. Phone orders min p&p of £1.99