The focus of "The 39 Clues" is the most powerful family in the world, the Cahills, who count Napoleon and Houdini among their relatives. Readers will be challenged to discover the source of the family's powers, revealed through 39 clubs that are hidden around the world and scattered throughout history. [EDIT] First book in the series, "The Maze of Bones," has been completed by Rick Riordan, who also has outlined the series' 10-book arc. The adventure kicks off with the death of Cahill clan matriarch Grace, who changes her will at the last moment, giving her descendants the choice between $1 million or a clue....says THIS ARTICLE in Variety. Word is a major set-piece in the movie will involve five kids stuffing themselves into an oven & using it to re-enter the Earth's atmosphere.