The Case of the Climbing Cat (High-rise Private Eyes)

From School Library Journal Kindergarten-Grade 3-William DuFris, the voice of TV's "Bob the Builder," narrates Cynthia Rylant's amusing easy-reader mystery (Greenwillow, 2000) featuring detectives Bunny Brown, a rabbit, and Jack Jones, a raccoon, who live in a high-rise apartment. The narration is well done, faithfully following the text, with voices changes to identify the four different characters. Simple yet relevant sound effects enhance listening enjoyment. One side of the cassette has page-turn signals. Several words integral to the story exceed the average language proficiency of primary students, such as professional, aviary, incredible, and specimen. These words learned in context will help to expand the vocabulary of young listeners. The book's illustrations by G. Brian Karas add to the mystery's enjoyment. A good choice for school and public libraries, especially for first and second graders and those learning English as a second language. Sherrie Davidson, Lyn Knoll Elementary School, Aurora, CO Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc. From AudioFile [Editor's Note: The following is a combined review with THE CASE OF THE MISSING MONKEY.]--These first two cases in Rylant's mystery series for young readers introduce us to the "High-Rise Private Eyes," a detective agency run by animal friends Bunny Brown and Jack Jones. Narrator William Dufris depicts with humor in the two detectives' lively exchanges--Bunny and Jack seldom agree on how to track down clues--and also captures how differences between the two friends often help them solve cases. Other incidental characters are nicely drawn, too. Dufris's pace is kid-friendly, allowing time for children to read along or just listen while enjoying the amusing illustrations. Fun sound effects (like detective music in between chapter breaks) round out this enjoyable listening experience for children who enjoy a little sleuthing. J.C.G. © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine