SCOUTING FOR CLUES

A dog solves three mysteries.

Scout is a dog of undisclosed breed who appears to visit Bark Park daily with her human. There, she talks with her friends, eats snacks provided by her human, and solves mysteries. Each of the three chapters is a self-contained mystery that barely warrants the label. It may appear to be splitting hairs to point out that dogs most likely would recognize a sweater (which the plot of “The Mystery Material” turns on) even if they hadn’t seen one on another dog, considering how many humans wear sweaters. This also speaks to the quality of the mysteries. Early chapter-book readers may be developing their reading skills, but their critical-thinking skills will generally be advanced enough that the “mysteries” in this book will (most likely) not be mysteries to them. This suits the book best to readers who are more interested in vocabulary and reading practice than in puzzling out mysteries. And though there are some authentically doggy traits present (puppies dash off into danger; canine characters display a high regard for treats, etc.), the canine humor and charm found in other dog-centric books for the audience (such as Dori Hillestad Butler and Nancy Meyers’ King & Kayla series) aren’t so prominent here. Pooler’s full-color spot illustrations help to distinguish the characters, and three separate factual notes that touch on elements found in each chapter conclude the book.

In future, let’s hope Scout uncovers some mysteries worthy of her commitment to sleuthing.