The Kid Detective's Handbook

Cracking cases is a piece of cake with the aid of The Kid Detective's Handbook by William Vivian Butler, illus. by Sue Dennen. Packaged in a clear plastic carrying case, the book offers handy tips on such topics as using and breaking secret codes, interviewing suspects and spotting counterfeit bills. A variety of tools, including magnifying glass, pencil, chalk and pad, helps would-be crime-solvers put their skills to the test (Little, Brown, $15.95, ages 7-12 ISBN 0-316-19951-6 Sept.).