Description
A homing pigeon teams up with a parrot and their humans to investigate an animal crime spree in this action-packed, illustrated detective story from Henry Cole.
“This light mystery is just right for young readers…. Cole mixes humor with intrigue to keep the narrative bouncing along, and readers will get a kick out of the unusual detective team.” ―Booklist
Homing pigeon Homer and his parrot friend Lulu learn something is afoul when they witness four-legged criminals stealing valuables from both the animal and human communities. Lulu and Homer track down the bandits, but need human help to stop them for good. Can they lead their human keepers to the culprits’ hideout and stop the thieves?
Award-winning author-illustrator Henry Cole (A Nest for Celeste) offers a fun, action-packed middle grade mystery that will keep readers guessing if the crime-solving pigeon will get his guy. A supporting cast of animals and humans forms a community that will have every reader wishing they could join in the hunt. Black and white illustrations throughout.
Reviews
“Cole’s gentle animal fantasies can always be depended upon, and this light mystery is just right for young readers…. Cole mixes humor with intrigue to keep the narrative bouncing along, and readers will get a kick out of the unusual detective team… Hand this to fans of Chris Riddell’s Ottoline and the Yellow Cat (2008) and A. B. Greenfield’s Ra the Mighty: Cat Detective (2018).” ―Booklist
“Engaging… The birds’ exploits are surprisingly believable and enjoyable to follow in Homer’s first-person narration…. Who doesn’t love smart, friendly birds on a secret mission?” ―Kirkus Reviews
“Chirpy… Cole (Brambleheart) richly imbues the narrative with sensory details… The expressive b&w pencil illustrations, rendered in panels evoking newspaper comics, heighten drama, tension, and humor.” ―Publishers Weekly
More Details
Lexile: 600L
F&;P: T, Gr 5, Genre F
Themes: Animals, Mystery, Adventure
BISAC 1: JUV028000 JUVENILE FICTION / Mysteries &; Detective Stories
BISAC 2: JUV002040 JUVENILE FICTION / Animals / Birds
BISAC 3: JUV039060 JUVENILE FICTION / Social Themes / Friendship