Dolphin Rescue

In one of two titles launching the Animal Planet Chapter Books series, Nichols blends fiction and nonfiction as she introduces siblings Maddie and Atticus Cardozo, who attempt to figure out who or what is responsible for upending trash bins throughout their coastal Maine town. As the fast-moving mystery progresses, interspersed photographic pages offer details about aquatic animals, the tides, and other information referenced in the plot; additionally, Langdo contributes full-color cartoon artwork, not seen by PW. Though the mystery turns out to be quite mild, a few tangential events, including the rescue of a trapped dolphin and the near-drowning of the children’s cousin (both of which are neatly resolved), offer dollops of tension. Simultaneously available: Farm Friends Escape! Ages 6–10. (Feb.)