MR. WHISKERS AND THE SHENANIGAN SISTERS

Misty, 10, and Zelda, 11, search for their kidnapped dad, Professor Nanigan.

Narrator Mr. Whiskers, a pun-loving stray dog who roams the neighborhood looking for a home, calls the sisters the Shenanigans and their father Henanigan. The family lives in a broken-down San Francisco boardinghouse owned by Aunties Tiana and Jada, who can’t afford to make much-needed repairs. After a suspicious-looking man claiming to be an FBI agent arrests the professor, and some supposed cops show up asking about stolen coins he was allegedly selling on the black market, the young sisters leap into action with Mr. Whiskers, who has a great sense of smell and some helpful four-legged pals. The girls decipher the meaning of their dad’s parting words and discover some old coins in a secret room in the house. Is this what the phony law officers are after? Could this treasure help the Aunties? The girls and their doggy friend must use smarts and strengths to find the professor. The dog-related puns pile up as the narrative draws to a climax. Written by a prolific practitioner of the genre, this lighthearted, fast-paced mystery features an endearing canine lead, two fearless kids, and plenty of wordplay, all of which will appeal to young readers. The Nanigans present white in the detailed grayscale artwork, while the Aunties appear to be women of color.

A mystery both gripping and heartwarming.