Spy Penguins (Spy Penguins #1)

Jackson and his best friend, Quigley, two penguins in the town of Rookeryville, want nothing more than to join the FBI ("Frosty Bureau of Investigation"); they hope that their detective skills, coupled with Quigley's knack for inventing gadgets, are the ticket they need to impress. But Quigley's latest creation, a "super-speedy, ice-blasting spy getaway vehicle" lands Jackson in the middle of an FBI stakeout, angering rather than interesting the head of the investigation. When Jackson finds his FBI agent uncle's radio, the pair learn of an investigation at the aquarium, where exotic sea creatures are disappearing. Thus begins their madcap adventure as they race to evade Jackson's mom, solve the crime, and show the FBI just how valuable they could be. Penguin details ("Quigley puffed up his feathers") and humor ("There was one tiny, krill-sized problem with this plan") by Hay (the Undead Pets series) build the world alongside cartoon illustrations by Jagucki. A quick pace, an engaging mystery, and attempted inventions--a pair of invisibility suits made of sardines that uses "the same scientific principles" as the fish--will keep readers hooked on this series opener. Ages 7-10. (Sept.)

Gr 2-5—Jackson and his best friend Quigley are sure they have what it takes to be part of the FBI, the Frosty Bureau of Investigation. After all, Quigley is a master inventor, constantly creating new, if sometimes dangerous, vehicles and gadgets. Jackson is brave enough to test Quigley's inventions, and good at coming up with clever plans on the spot. The two young penguins think they might finally have a chance to join the bureau when they stumble upon an FBI investigation into some missing rare fish from the city aquarium. Jackson and Quigley believe the thief must be Chilla Belle (aka Coldfinger), the owner of the new Shark's Pit Restaurant, but it will take all of their planning and inventing skills to get past Jackson's eagle-eyed mother, sneak into the restaurant, find the evidence they need, and convince the FBI to believe them. The first in a new series, this is chock full of penguin-themed wordplay, including a popular penguin pop star named Justin Beaker. Quigley's inventions, including an "invisibility suit" made of sardine poop, are quirky and fun, as are Jackson's attempts to distract his mom from discovering his spy exploits. VERDICT This light, funny adventure series will appeal to elementary school mystery fans.—Ashley Larsen, Pacifica Libraries, CA

Spy Penguins is just fun to read.... Jackson and Quigley make a great and lovable team, and the action and fast-paced storytelling will ensure that kids will want to spend time with these two - and their extended group of family and friends - again. — Mom Read It