A Mystery in Pocketville

December 1, 2024
A theft rouses unfair suspicions among the residents of Pocketville. Monti the mole and Leo the lizard meet at the library to take in a figurine display on loan from Mrs. Sheep. Monti loves collections--from Leo's rocks to Carl the librarian's assortment of objects that patrons have left behind in library books--and hopes to start his own one day. Then Mrs. Sheep's favorite figurine disappears; in a panic, she faints, then starts leveling accusations against Monti. Others begin to suspect him, too. Leo and their avian pal Harriet come to the defense of a visibly upset Monti and comfort him over tea. Leo sorts out his own doubts about Monti's innocence and does some detective work. Sharp-eyed readers may deduce the culprit before he does. The story's emergent lessons about apologizing and making amends lead recent transplant Leo to recall his time outside Pocketville: "Wherever I've been, there are people like Mrs. Sheep. Loud and selfish people...But there are also good people!" Relying on simple linework and muted tones, Kantorovitz depicts an adorably anthropomorphized cast. The efficient use of two to five rectangular panels per page results in a smooth, clear reading experience. An epilogue on a resting rock by the river will be a familiar sight to series readers, one among many cozy comforts this book has to offer. A winning celebration of collectors and their collections, and of friends to share them with. (illustrated and photographed examples of collections)(Graphic fiction. 7-9)

COPYRIGHT(2024) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

November 1, 2024
Grades 1-4 A neighborhood learns about sentimental value and problem-solving in the face of a suspicious incident in this graphic novel for early readers. In the second installment of Kantorovitz's Monti and Leo series, Monti finds himself the prime suspect when a figurine goes missing from Mrs. Sheep's collection on display at the local library. Monti's loyal friend, Leo, is determined to get to the bottom of the theft and clear his friend's name, even while faced with the big feelings of a community newly enamored with collections and aghast at the sudden wave of trinket disappearances. An approachable, clearly defined cartoon style with a soft color palette makes the plot easy for beginning readers to follow. Leo's investigation demonstrates how simple it is for negativity to creep in during stressful situations, but also how practical problem-solving is always more productive than jumping to conclusions. Readers will delight in the treasures collected by the residents of Pocketville. A fun whodunit about the importance of conflict resolution and keeping the feelings of others in mind.

COPYRIGHT(2024) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.