SYNOPSIS

Clever and inquisitive 12-year-old Teddy, whose parents work at a private zoo and live on the premises, investigates the mysterious death of a cantankerous hippo, much beloved by tourists but less so by zoo employees. Through careful observation, deep knowledge of animal behavior, and just a bit of mischief, Teddy and his new friend Summer (the zoo owner’s daughter) uncover a complicated conspiracy to reach the culprit. SPOILER ALERT: it won’t be who you’ll think it is.

(1st in an 8-book series, so far)

PERFECT AGE 9 – 14

THEMES

• Zoos have a role in animal rescue and protection, and animals are often better behaved than the humans observing them
• Sometimes, kids have better knowledge, more creative ideas and sharper investigative skills than grownups
• Mischief away from parents’ oversight is OK, as long as it’s for a good cause? Right??

We love

• Age-appropriate humor, yet clever enough to amuse adults reading along
• Teddy’s loving, trusting and mutually respectful relationship with his parents
• Teddy’s deep passion and wide knowledge about animals is contagious for readers of all ages
• Sometimes-outrageous situations entertain young readers while important real-life messages offer teachable moments

WATCH OUT FOR (Language, Big / Sensitive Topics, Outdated Concepts):

• A female security guard, Large Marge, is caricatured, ridiculed, and outwitted by Teddy. The comical relief offered may come a tad too readily at the expense of an adult of authority.

CONVERSATION STARTERS

• Who was your favorite character? What did you like most about them?
• What did you learn about the role zoos play in the life of some wild animals?
• What do you know about smuggling? Why do you think Martin Delgado was interested in emeralds?
• What do you think about Doc and the secrets he kept?