THE STINK FILES, DOSSIER 001: The Postman Always Brings Mice

A worldly if misunderstood cat aims to prove himself as the purrfect private eye in this new mystery-adventure series. Feline narrator James Edward Bristlefur, devoted pet of Sir Archibald Ash, director of a British counterspy agency, loves nothing better than helping his human keep "constant vigil against spies, thieves, assassins and other generally bad guys." So when Sir Archibald dies after ingesting poisoned biscuits, Bristlefur suspects foul play and vows to seek the killer. Alas, Bristlefur's mission is derailed by an airport baggage mishap that lands him at Newark Airport in New Jersey. From there, he finds himself in the middle of a strange and challenging assignment—as pet for an American family in suburbia and renamed Mr. Stink. Bristlefur's/Stink's talents come in handy in helping his new human, a boy, fend off a bully. But the Sir Archibald mystery is never far from Stink's mind, assuring readers there are more exploits ahead. Though the novel has a bit of a convoluted start (paying homage to James Bond) and a far-fetched denouement, readers will likely find Holm & Hamel's solidly paced tale an entertaining outing. Younger kids will be gently challenged by some of the vocabulary here; older kids will enjoy Bristlefur's/Stink's intelligent, indignant tone and some of his more colorful phrases. Half-tone full-panel b&w artwork breaks up the narrative but adds little to the characterizations or proceedings. Ages 7-10. (June)