Publisher: Pajama Press
Format Read: Hardcover
Number of pages: 136 pages
Published: April 29th, 2024
Source: YA Books Central Giveaway ( YA Books Central)
Opening Lines: "There were many mysteries at The Biltmore, a hundred-year-old building in New York. "
The LaRue Detective Agency has a spotless reputation at The Biltmore for its top-notch investigations and knack for cracking difficult cases. So, it's no surprise when they're called upon to solve the puzzling case of Bijou, the feline star of a hit murder mystery film, who has mysteriously vanished.
Bijou isn't just famous for her screen presence; she's also the sole heir to a renowned designer's fortune, including ownership of an upscale apartment with a nanny. On the day of her disappearance, Bijou was scheduled to be picked up from the groomer by the nanny's daughter, but instead she's been catnapped.
Elodie, her dog Carnegie, and her stunt-performing best friend Oscar track down clues, discreetly question the residents of the building and work tirelessly to catch the elusive catnapper. Although this is the second book in the series, it reads comfortably as a standalone. The story is a delightful blend of classic and contemporary stories. It's both fun, creative and whimsical, with the nostalgic appeal of Nate the Great, Encyclopedia Brown, and Harriet the Spy. Its setting evokes the charm of New York's Upper West Side sprinkled with the playfulness of another famous New Yorker, Eloise.
Elodie, is sweet and generally wants to help solve the case. Her confidence is only slightly shaken when some of her suspects don't pan out. It's sweet how encouraging she is of Oliver's dream of being a stunt-performer in Hollywood. Even making sure that he doesn't give up when he doesn't hear encouraging words from his idol. The short chapters and gorgeous full-color illustrations by Peggy Collins make this a great story for parents to read with their child. I appreciated the author's note explaining the connection between Bijou and Choupette, a real-life cat who, after her owner's death, now lives with his former housekeeper.
I hope you'll check out all the other Marvelous Middle-Grade Monday posts at Greg Pattridge's blog HERE
This sounds like a fun mystery. I like that it's short and has illustrations. It's good to know you can read it as a standalone. Thanks for the recommendation.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds such a fun story! Thanks for the recommendation!
ReplyDeleteCats and dogs in a mystery. This sounds like fun. Thanks for posting.
ReplyDeleteCats and dogs and a mystery, this sounds like a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like such a cute story! I'm on the lookout for shorter middle grade titles for my littlest, so I'll keep this one in mind. :)
ReplyDeleteI read the first book in this series! Time to find out what happens!
ReplyDeleteI haven't read this one but your review sure convinces me to give a try. Thanks for featuring your post on this week's Marvelous Middle Grade Monday!
ReplyDeleteI really liked the first book. I'll look for this one. It sounds great. Thanks for the review.
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