The Case of the Golden Bone (Detective Sweet Pea #1)

Blue-hued pooch Sweet Pea lives a carefree life in Parkville, where all species coexist peacefully. There, she indulges in her passions of creating art, spending time with friends, and dumpster-diving for hidden treasures. The arrival of canine newcomers Casper and Jelly sparks renewed excitement for Sweet Pea, especially since they’re fellow art lovers; the newly-minted trio is excited to see the legendary Golden Chew Bone on display at the Parkville Art Museum. While attending its unveiling, however, Parkville denizens are shocked to learn that the monument has vanished. But with Sweet Pea’s extraordinary sense of smell, she’s the perfect pup to sniff out the perpetrator. She’s accompanied by Wayne, a raccoon whose comedic rivalry with the pooch protagonist provides spirited competition, touching personal moments, and ample additional amusement in this already good-humored whodunit. Simple, cozy, and broadly colorful illustrations by Varon (My Pencil and Me) have an analog feel reminiscent of an old-fashioned Saturday morning cartoon. Brimming with visual gags and punny labels scattered throughout (“moldy bread slice,” “soggy biscuit,” “crumb-covered muffin wrapper”), this straightforward yet goofy graphic novel series launch will have young readers giggling into the next volume. Ages 6–10. (June)